Jim Martin, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on January 17, 2022.
Jim was born May 13, 1943, to Kenneth and Bonnie Martin and was raised in Madera, CA. He graduated from Madera High School and California State University Fresno. He married his high school sweetheart, Jeannette Alves, in 1963. Jim began his lifelong career in agriculture, working with his father, Ken, at West Side Pump Company in San Joaquin.
Jim Martin (center), missionary work with ILI
He later co-founded Cal-West Rain in Kerman, where he worked with his son, Jason, until retirement. He had a passion for missionary work and traveled the world sharing the gospel. Jim served on various mission, business, and charitable boards and was an avid Fresno State Bulldog fan.
Nothing was more important to Jim than his love for his family and the numerous relationships that felt like family. He loved reading and teaching from the Bible. He taught Sunday school until the week before he went to be with Jesus. He touched the lives of many, serving as a mentor and providing a steady stream of humor that we all will miss.
Jim is survived by his wife Jeannette, daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Rick, daughter Deborah and son-in-law Doc, and son Jason and daughter-in-law Cassy. He has five grandchildren: Elise (spouse Stephen), Brandon (spouse Logan), Justin, Nathan, and Rachel. He is also survived by brother Ken Martin and sister-in-law Maxine Martin, sister Janice Rau and brother-in-law Steve Rau, and many nieces and nephews.
Celebration of Life will be held on January 27, 2022, at 11:00 am at Campus Bible Church, 4710 N Maple Ave, Fresno, CA. A reception will be held on-site immediately following.
Memorial gifts may be sent to the International Leadership Institute (iliteam.org), the Bulldog Foundation Endowment (bulldogfoundation.org), or Hinds Hospice (hindshospice.org).
