Arthur Frederick Martin

Arthur (Art) Martin of Orangevale passed away on November 19, 2012 in Roseville Kaiser Hospital after a long illness. He was born in Fort Bragg, California on November 2, 1928. He had just celebrated his 84th birthday. His wife, and family were at his side. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marita, son David, son Gary (Paula) and daughter (Larry). He had eight grand children and three great-grand children. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and grandson.

Art was a survivor. Thirty-seven years ago, he was diagnosed with leukemia and given a 10% chance to live from Friday to Monday. He survived five years of chemotherapy to compete in logging shows. He won California ax throw champion twice.

He was a timber faller in Fort Bragg until his wife suggested that he look for a safer job. He took a test for fire departments around Northern California and was hired by the Campbell Fire Department. He was retired from there on a disability. He developed leukemia two years after retirement.

The family moved back to Fort Bragg. While still on chemotherapy, Art competed in the Labor Day Logging show. He won the All Around Title in three decades. He served on the Paul Bunyan Celebration Board for five years. Several articles were written in the Advocate News about his leukemia survival. One Labor Day, the San Francisco KPIX crew was in Fort Bragg and while filming the logging show, they were told Art's story. The program aired in 50 different stations throughout the country. He received calls from various people wanting to know the secret to his survival.

A private family service is to be held in a few weeks and a celebration of his life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to your favorite charity.