Lemoore loses a local leader; Gene Martin passes away at 89

Martin was an avid sports fan who attended nearly all of Lemoore’s sporting events, including football, where he was often seen in the stands cheering on the Tigers.

The high school was a passion for him, so much so that he served on the Lemoore High School Board of Trustees from 1980 to 1995. He also was inducted into the 2002 class of the Lemoore High School Foundation for Educational Excellence.

Martin had an influence on hundreds of Lemoore youngsters during his long life, including longtime Lemoore resident and coach, Bob Clement. “He was a mentor and like a dad to me,” said Clement. “I owe a lot to him. He was a major influence in my life, he and his wife Gerri.”

Martin often lent a helping hand to Clement and the school, specifically helping Clement with local sports projects, including renovation of the LHS baseball stadium.

“I knew Gene when I was a young boy and got closer to him when he coached at the Babe Ruth level,” remembered Clement. “I got close to him through sports. I would often go over to the Martins as a young boy. He was just so supportive of me. He was like a second dad to me.”

Martin worked for Producers Cotton Oil for over 30 years, and was a longtime parishioner at St. Peter's Catholic Church, but sports were his passion.  Gene coached Babe Ruth for many years and also worked the track meets.   He loved the Lemoore Tigers football team and seldom missed a game. He was preceded in death by his beloved spouse Gerri, his parents; Joe and Lena Martin, and his siblings whom he dearly loved; Vivian Romero, Elsie Roberts and Clarence (Mickey) Martin. 

He is survived by one son; Tommy Martin and spouse Margie of Hanford, a daughter; Janice Gunlund and spouse Chris of Fresno, 7 grandchildren; Mike McBride of Reedley, Traci Martin of Long Beach, Brandi Martin of Fresno, Randy McBride of Fresno, Shannon Hunt of Fresno, Denise Ruiz of Fresno and Melissa Gunlund of Redondo Beach and 6 great grandsons.

Gene loved Lemoore and the Lemoore Tigers.  He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at Phipps-Dale Funeral Chapel with Recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 6 p.m. at the funeral chapel.  Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday at 12Noonat St. Peter's Catholic Church with interment following inLemooreCemetery.  In lieu of flowers, friends who wish may contribute to Lemoore High School Athletic Dept.,101 E. Bush Street,Lemoore,CA 93245.