DeMar Martin Obituary

DeMar Martin, 94, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, returning to the loving embrace of his wife, Gayle, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion. His gentle strength, steady kindness, and unwavering loyalty to family, faith, and country will be remembered by all who knew him.

Born on May 20, 1931, in Shelley, Idaho, DeMar was raised on a farm in Preston, Idaho, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and service. Those early years shaped the man he would become- dependable, patient, and grounded in the simple goodness of everyday life.

As a young man, DeMar proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He began his service as a communications operator, ensuring vital lines of information stayed open in challenging conditions. He later transitioned to driving a tank, a role that demanded courage, discipline, and calm under pressure. His service remained a quiet source of pride throughout his life.

After returning home, DeMar built a long and dedicated career as a letter carrier, serving his community with the same reliability and warmth that defined every part of his life. Many came to know him by his friendly wave and steady presence along his route. Outside of work, he enjoyed cutting hair as a hobby, offering trims and conversation to friends, neighbors, and family- never in a hurry, always with a smile.

On July 16, 1954, DeMar married the love of his life, Gayle. Together they raised six children- Vicky, Steve, Bret, Thad, Teri, and Cory- instilling in them the same values of love, faith, and hard work that guided his own life. His family grew to include 26 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren, each one a source of pride and joy. DeMar cherished every visit, every story, and every moment spent surrounded by the generations that followed him.

Faith was a central part of DeMar's life. He served faithfully in many callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including as Bishop of the Logan 11th Ward, where his compassion and steady leadership blessed countless lives. Later, he and Gayle served a service mission at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City, a time they treasured together. His devotion to the gospel was evident in the way he lived- quietly, humbly, and with a heart full of service.

DeMar found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially in tending to his garden. He poured his heart into the soil each year, growing what many lovingly insisted was the best corn and cantaloupe around. Sharing the harvest brought him genuine happiness, and his garden became a place where memories were made and stories were shared.

DeMar was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gayle; his son, Steve; his parents, Edward and Emma; his siblings Roberta, Deal, and Clarice; and his granddaughters Amanda and Kirsten. He is survived by his children Vicky (George Moritz), Bret (Diane), Thad (Tori), Teri (John David), and Cory (Tamie), as well as his daughter-in-law Tammy. His posterity remains a living testament to the love and values he carried throughout his life.

A graveside service will be held on March 3rd at 12:30 PM at the Preston, Idaho Cemetery. A Family and Friend viewing will precede the service at 10:00 AM at Allen Mortuary.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.