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BORN

1937

DIED

2024

Duane Martina Obituary

Duane A. Martina passed away peacefully at his home in Stanwood, WA on September 22, 2024 with loved ones by his side. Duane was 86 years old. He was born in Lake Stevens, WA to Alfred and Lillian Martina on November 23, 1937.

Duane graduated from Lake Stevens High School in 1956. He then went on to continue his studies at Everett Community College and Western Washington College earning his degree in teaching. After marrying, Duane resided at Mission Beach in Tulalip, WA.

During his more than 30-year tenure with the Marysville School District, Duane taught a variety of vocational classes as well as Driver's Education. By his students, he was known affectionately as "Smiley" because of his always-present happy grin.

Throughout his teaching career, Duane officiated high school football, basketball, and baseball. He was a member of the Snohomish County Referees Association for more than 30 years. Duane was a well-loved fixture by his athletes and students. He received multiple nominations and awards for his significant contributions to the school's youth through his officiating.

After retiring, Duane moved with his wife, Pam, to Arlington where he built a home and shop to further his hobby of woodworking. It was in this home that he watched his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow and play. Duane was an impressive craftsman with many skills and hobbies. He enjoyed music, camping, fishing, building and racing hydroplanes, sports, turning wood, carpentry, and teaching his grandkids.

Duane was deeply loved and appreciated by his family for his jokes, bottomless candy stash, kind spirit, and thoughtfully placed one-liners. He was a jokester who would distract his unsuspecting company with a seemingly innocent "Look at the elephant!" before swiping their sweet treat when they turned away. When asked how he was, Duane would respond in the same way on even the dullest of days - "Marvelous." He had an infectious spirit of positivity that made it seem possible to find simple joy in any situation. Duane was a dearly loved husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, brother, teacher, and friend. He has left lasting memories of love and laughter in all that had the privilege of knowing him and he will be missed an immeasurable amount.

Duane is survived by his loving wife of more than 60 years, Pam (Minshull) Martina; their two children, Dana (Jamie) Lewis and David (Olivia) Martina; seven grandchildren, Bailey (Luke) Visser, Carissa Meredith, Logan (Brandy) Hanner, Madison Martina, Andre Allsop, Sawyer Martina and Charlotte Martina; two great-grandsons, Garrett Visser and Branson Hanner; and brother, Bruce Martina and family. Duane was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Lillian Martina.

The family wishes to thank Evergreen Hospice for the care that they provided to Duane. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Evergreen Hospice or to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Herald (Everett) from Oct. 19 to Oct. 20, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Duane Martina

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Mark Dibble

September 1, 2025

So sorry to hear this. I had Duane (aka Sir or Mr Martina) for 4 years of auto shop. He would change the name and number of the class every year so that us motor heads would get credit for a 'new' elective every year. We're all fortunate that the memories last our lifetime as well.

Jim & Brenda

November 8, 2024

My wife Brenda and I have lived next to Duane and Pam for over 18 years at their Arlington home. They have taught us what the meaning of being a great neighbor means. When we first moved in, we were working in our yard building a RV port. Duane, Pam, and several kids showed up with shovels, rakes, and a tractor. This is how we met them. I also remember the 'fabulous' statement from Duane every time I would ask how he was doing. so may memories over the 18 years. RIP we will never forget you.

Kay Niemi

October 31, 2024

I am so sorry for your loss. I taught with Duane for years and so enjoyed his humor. My classroom was across from his and over the years we shared many conversations, solving all the school district's challenges. He always ended those conversations on a high note. He was a great teacher and a great friend.

Dan Jubie

October 22, 2024

Back in about 1959 or 1960 Duane had a white 1952 ford hardtop mild custom with white interior. My dad and uncle Bob had a car lot and a shop on Broadway in Everett. Uncle Bob built a hot rod flathead engine for Duane. When uncle Bob had the engine finished I watched him put it in Duane's car. I got to go on the first road test with uncle Bob driving and Duane riding,I was in the back seat. I'll never forget that day ! When we got back to the shop they talked for a while and then when Duane left he burned rubber leaving, it was so cool ! What a great memory! May he Rest In Peace

Melain

October 22, 2024

I have very fond memories of uncle Duane. He had a good sense of humor and a kind face. As a young kid I couldn't always tell if he was joking, but soon a smile would appear..he couldn't help himself. A really nice guy. My thought are with you all.

Stoney Anderson

October 21, 2024

Many great memories from his classes.

Jason Osborne

October 21, 2024

Former student and driving student of Mr Martina here Go check high school class of 1996. He always had a sense of humor for sure...i enjoy driver's ed with him,it was a lot of fun. He always used me as an example to the other students in the car while driving lol. Rest in peace Mr Martina

Karan Kronholm

October 19, 2024

John and I are so sorry to learn of Duane's passing. We are remembering fondly all the good times we spent with Duane and Pam at ball games and on the beach. May he rest in peace.

Nancy DeWitte Goodfellow

October 19, 2024

I had Mr. Martina in high school for mechanical drawing. My best friend and I signed up to meet the guys. Unfortunately, mechanical drawing was not my forte, but Mr. Martina was kind and patient with me. Deepest condolences to the family. He was a very nice man.

Dennis DeBolt

October 19, 2024

Sorry to hear of his passing . Duane was a great member of the Drivers Ed teaching community. I am sure he is remembered by all he came in contact with .

Mike Colacarro

October 19, 2024

Meeting and working with Duane at MPHS was truly a gift. Every encounter exposed note of his unique personality. He was careful with his thoughts. I always walked away smiling. Visiting in his classroom it was revealing to see the respect and appreciation the students had for "Smiley". I'm smiling now. His family will always share their memories and smile. In my thoughts.

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