In the early morning hours of July 16, Gerald (Jerry) Martin, 85, was called home by the Lord. Jerry was born January 20, 1933 to parents Gerald and Florence Martin. He was born, raised and educated in Tacoma, WA. On November 14, 1952, he married the love of his life Joyce Coates, whom he now joins in their eternal home. Jerry worked for many years as a graphic supplies salesman. 

Jerry and Joyce moved to Richland in 1999 and joined Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kennewick. During their retirement Joyce and Jerry enjoyed traveling and took many cruises and road trips. Jerry was a member of several area wine clubs and the family recently celebrated his 85th birthday with a party bus winery tour. He will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his lovingly stubborn attitude, and his abiding faith in the Lord.

Jerry is survived by son Rick and wife Patty of Kennewick, WA; daughter Merrill Smith and husband Gordon of Bloomsburg, PA; and daughter Nina Hoppen of Tacoma, WA.  Jerry was dearly loved by his six grandchildren: Kelsey (partner Joshua) Martin and Kevin Martin, Courtney (James) Stankiewicz and Joshua Smith (fiancée Rachel), William Hoppen and Kurina Hoppen. Jerry was known by several different names to his grandkids while they were growing up: Poppy and Grampy were two favorites.

In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, the family is planning a celebration for later this year.

Remembrances to the Bethlehem Lutheran School Building Fund or Chaplaincy Health Care in lieu of flowers.