Martin, D. "Don" Dr.

Dr. W. "Don" Martin, 81, of Albuquerque, NM, died peacefully on July 16, 2016. Don was born in Gladbrook, Iowa, on December 5, 1934. As a young man, Don was a gymnast who entertained audiences doing front somersaults over pianos.

Dr. Martin earned a Bachelor’s Degree, a Master’s Degree, and a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa, and was a professor of English Education at Syracuse University. Students remember him as a much beloved teacher.

During the past 15 years, Don has lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, near his only daughter, Nathalie Martin, and his son-inlaw, Stewart Paley. He is also survived by his two sisters, Dr. Patricia Floyd of Vinton, Iowa and Barbara Kamman of Chico, California, as well as his loving dog, Skylar, who helped make life worth living until the very end. Also surviving are many close Albuquerque friends, including Mako Linnehan, Mike Donovan, Betty Hulebak, John Brandt, Jenny Moore, and Pat and John Marsello. Don is remembered as a dog lover and a man who never stopped teaching and learning. Above all else, he is remembered as a devoted father.

Don lived at Las Colinas Village Retirement Community for 14 years, and most recently lived at the Robin House Assisted Living owned by Andrew Pacheco. Don and his family are deeply grateful for all of the wonderful care he received in recent years.

Donations in Don’s honor can be made to Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico, P.O. Box 1316, Tijeras, NM 87059.