Martin, Eugene

Eugene Harold Martin, 84, of Portales, died Tuesday, March 28, 2006, at his residence.

Born April 26, 1921, in Afton, Texas, to Minnie Lou and D.X. Martin, he grew up in the Dora area, where he attended school. He married Irene Cox on July 3, 1946, in San Francisco. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II in the Pacific Theater as well as in other capacities. Following honorable discharge, he entered civil service, retiring as an engineering technician in 1971.

He returned to New Mexico where he worked planting seed grass for area farmers. He and his wife attended Emmanuel Baptist Church, and he was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge 26, Scottish Rite, and El Bekal Shriners. For many years, he served as a candidate coach for incoming masons, and in October 2005 was named inspector general honorary of the 33rd degree mason in Santa Fe. He enjoyed working his land, and being active in the community and the Masonic Lodge, family members said.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, R.R., T.C. and Wayne Martin; three sisters, Goldie Chaffin, Thelma Townsend and Ila Page, and a son, Larry Martin.

He is survived by his wife; a son, Kenneth Martin (and wife, Sharon) of Springville, Calif.; four grandchildren, Devon, Shawny, Collin and Caylen Martin; two great-grandchildren, Laurel and Sean Temple; and two sisters,: Ethel Mullins and Lois Folkner, both of Portales.

The Rev. Walter Huber will officiate.

Arrangements are by Wheeler Mortuary, Portales.