We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Gary here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
He was always Mr. Marten to me. He was a Glenn School dad and the kindest man. I will remember him as Santa Claus for our little school. I have tears in my eyes, but a smile too as I remember him.
Wendy Steudle
December 28th, 2020 at 12:00am
Melanie, Jon and family, Your dad and grandpa was a very kind man. We chaperoned with Gary and Judy for the high school choir. He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Joyce Weber
December 28th, 2020 at 12:00am
Melanie and Jon so sorry for you loss.
Ken and Rose Cisco Morrison
December 28th, 2020 at 12:00am
Melanie, I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My deepest condolences.
Marta Amar
December 28th, 2020 at 12:00am
Smiles smiles and even more smiles when you thought he couldn't smile anymore. A great member of our community always willing to lend a hand at a moments notice. A good friend that listened and one whom would share advice if asked. Was always a wonderful conversationalist when ever entering out shop here at Ridley Automotive usually picking up one of many of his local friends that needed a ride while leaving their vehicle for service. Gary was a great waver as well and an exceptional horn honker, never missing a wave or honk to me while driving by my veggie stand or while I was in my gardens, occasionally stopping in to check on my well being and compliment me on my home grown produce leaving with a wave, a honk and a big smile every time. My heart goes out to his girls, family and many a wonderful friend. I will miss him as many. ~ Allan S. Ridley Sr.
Allan S Ridley
December 28th, 2020 at 12:00am
Gary and Judy were my first friends when I moved to the west side of the state. They helped a couple kids find a place to call home and introduced us to the 'hood! We had our regular evenings around the wood stove with nachos and margaritas with tons of laughs. I am glad they are back together, but will be forever grateful for the time they spent making my world better. My deepest condolences to the family. Peace and Love...Mike and Diz
Mike Neiss
December 30th, 2020 at 12:00am
Melanie, I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is so hard. Your Dad has the warmest smile. ❤️
Shelly Ridley
December 30th, 2020 at 12:00am
Melanie & family, I will always remember the first time I met your mom & dad. I rode my horse, Beckett, through the two-track that went from my back door to theirs. "You must be "Crazy Carol', they said. I disagreed that I was crazy, but admitted that it was a name that had been given to me by the neighbors. That was the late 70's, and we were friends ever since. I loved both of your folks and their 2 girls. They were hard-working and always fun to be around! My sympathies to you.
Carol Carlisle
January 3rd, 2021 at 12:00am
Gary Marten was the FIRST person I met when I moved in with my current husband Steve. I had just moved from Washington State. Gary knocked on the door and with the most biggest smile - and huge embrace answering the door showed me immediately what kind of a wonderful man he was. Both he and his wife, Judy were very important in our lives, as they were like best friends/parents to my hubby and I. They even stood up for us at our wedding! I can still hear Jude "Hi ya kid!" and Gar walking around the corner with the biggest smile and love! Blessings to Melanie and all the Marten Family! We were sooo blessed to have them in our lives with all their guidance they have given, love without any constraints! Our life is richer to have known them and they will continue in our lives and memories! We hope to join their beautiful energy that is surrounding us now! Much love! So much love! The community has lost a wonderful soul! I can still picture him in his white van - always stopping by to check on us and say hi! All around wonderful man! Very blessed to have had them in our lives and my children's lives. Much love to all!
Tanya bucel
January 5th, 2021 at 12:00am
Mel and family. I met Gary and Judy in Wisconsin, buying one of their goats. Judy and I were both pregnant, me with Bobby, her with the twins. Was devastated with the loss of Vanessa. We moved here and your parents stayed with us to find their farm. What a fun couple they were. Will always treasure many fond memories.
Anita Hennig
January 5th, 2021 at 12:00am
Rip my friend we had some great times together art the power plant
Lee mealer
January 19th, 2021 at 12:00am