Forrest Duane Martin, known to all as Duane, age 92, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, reunited at last with his beloved wife, Ellen Catherine Martin, age 85, who preceded him in death on January 11, 2025. Married for 66 wonderful years, their deep devotion to one another was the heart of their family and a beautiful testament to a lifetime of shared love. Ellen was born on June 28, 1939, in Bakersfield, California. Known for her warm hospitality, gentle humor, and steady grace, she poured her heart into her career as a beloved elementary school teacher, guiding and inspiring countless young minds.
Ellen had a deep love for music, she found great joy in singing and playing her guitar, and was a skilled seamstress who poured love into everything she created. Above all, she had an extraordinary gift for making every person in her life feel special, especially her grandchildren and great– grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.
Duane was born on March 1, 1934, in El Centro, California. A man of integrity, quiet wisdom, and sharp intellect, Duane honorably served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a distinguished legal career as an attorney before serving his community with fairness, wisdom, and justice as a judge. Outside the courtroom, Duane had a deep passion for the outdoors and was an avid snow skier and skilled fly fisherman. After losing his sweet Ellen, Duane carried her memory with quiet strength, and his family finds great comfort in knowing they are together once again.
Together, Duane and Ellen lived a life rich in adventure and shared joy. Whether backpacking through the wilderness, traveling the country with good friends in their RVs, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of living in their almond orchard, they embraced every chapter of life side by side.
They are survived by their children: Steve Martin, Alison Tucker and her husband Tim, and Jeff Martin and his wife Monika. They are also survived by their cherished grandchildren and great–grandchildren: Spencer Martin and his wife Cat (with son Declan), Margo Cox and her husband Dalton, Tori Tucker, Ian Tucker, Warren Martin and his wife Megan (with sons Daniel and Max), and Owen Martin and his wife Joné (with son Cooper); as well as many extended family members and dear friends.
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Saturday, August 1, 2026
