Kathryn Ann Martin Obituary (1929 - 2023)

Kathryn A. Martin On August 28, 2023, after 94 years of a remarkable life, Katie left us. She was born in Portland, Oregon to Col. Harold and Myrtle Wharfield. A daughter of a career military man, the family moved around a lot, but ended up in San Diego, CA. Katie attended college at the University of Arizona, Tucson, and one summer home from school, met her husband Dick Martin, who grew up in La Mesa, CA, who was also home from school at the University of Davis. Katie and Dick married in June 1952 and were married for 58 years until his death in 2010. The cattle business took the Martin family to Casa Grande, Arizona, to Bend, Oregon, to southern and central California and finally to the Imperial Valley in 1973. Katie's life was focused on family and community. Katie was an avid volunteer in Brawley with the Women's Auxiliary of Pioneers Memorial Hospital, DOVES, Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation and PEO Brawley Chapter. She held different board positions in these organizations and spent many years working in the hospital gift shop. Katie made many beautiful pieces of needlework and would often donate these items for charity fundraising. Katie was a gorgeous and gracious lady, who made friends wherever she went, and she especially enjoyed her Wednesday night dinner group at Brawley's Stockmen's Club and was devoted to her PEO sisters. She will be missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Katie is survived by her sister, Jeanne Joslin of Cordova, Alaska; daughter, Liz Delano (Mark); sons, Jeff Martin (Vickie) and Rick Martin; grandson, Jason Martin; granddaughters, Lindsay Molina (Shawn) and Casey Dittmer (Michael); and great grandchildren, Cameron and Audrey Molina, Elliot and Colbie Dittmer. Private graveside memorials are planned at El Cajon Cemetery where Katie will be interred next to her parents. Remembrances may be made to the Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation or Boys & Girls Clubs of Imperial Valley.