James Martin

Grand Junction, Colo. — James Dennis “Jim” Martin passed away peacefully July 3, 2023, at his home in Grand Junction, Colo. He was born Oct. 5, 1946, in Dighton, Mass., to John and Louise Martin, and was the youngest of the five rambunctious Martin boys.

He was a standout athlete at Dighton-Rehoboth High School, finding success as both a pole vaulter and as a quarterback. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served as a submariner, and later moved to southeastern Connecticut where he spent the next 50 years of his life, becoming a well-known builder of custom homes. He would frequently be found playing golf or boating in his spare time, and usually could be found to have a cup of coffee within arm’s reach.

He is survived by his wife, Ayn Gelinas of Grand Junction, Colo., with whom he shared a full and wonderful retirement life of travel, exploring the outdoors and the occasional political debate. He adored Ayn’s large extended family as well, and cherished the many moments spent together. Jim was predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Janet Martin, a constant at her side, with whom he raised four children, and built several businesses. He was also predeceased by his older brothers, John Martin (Meredith Martin) and Daniel Martin (Linda Martin). He is survived by his children, Jim Martin (Ineliz Santana), Christine Carlton (Debbie Croft), Lisa Manfredi, and Butch Carlton (Barbara Carlton); as well as a granddaughter, Alyssa Lewis; a grandson, Robert Carlton; and a great-granddaughter, Aria Molina; as well as his older brothers, Paul Martin (Nola Martin) and Arthur Martin (Betty Martin); and many beloved nieces and nephews. Jim was known to many for his warm smile and granite-like handshake, and will be missed by all who knew him.

While he didn’t want a funeral, family and friends are invited to gather at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, at Langley’s in Waterford, for one final raise of the glass in his memory. No need for a suit, he’d rather have been there to play golf himself.