Neil Mabe Martin

Published 8:24 am Monday, February 12, 2024

Neil Mabe Martin

June 12, 1939 – February 3, 2024

Neil Mabe Martin, 84, of Ashland passed away peacefully at Skylark Assisted Living on Saturday, February 3, 2024 surrounded by love from his family.

Neil was born June 12, 1939 in Eugene, OR, to Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Martin. He was raised in Walton, and graduated from Elmira High School where he met his wife, Erlene (VanDevender). Neil worked for over 25 years as a Sales Supervisor for Williams’ Bakery (currently known as Franz Bakery), until he retired at the age of 55. He took great pride as a leader in his community and served as a member of the local chapter of Jaycees, a member of the local Teamsters Union, and a member of the Fern Ridge School District in Elmira where he lived with his family from 1967 to 1972. Neil loved to travel, which he enjoyed with his wife Erlene until he was debilitated by a severe stroke at the age of 57. Neil’s fondest memories were spending time with family and friends snow skiing at Mt. Ashland, and hunting, fishing and cutting fire wood in the great out-doors of Oregon.

Neil is survived by his wife, Erlene, of 67 years, his children, Scott, Lisa, and Patrick, and son-in law, Alex Martinez, his grandchildren, Isabella, John, Luke Martinez, and Michelle, as well as brother-in-law Neal VanDevender and wife Cynthia, and several nieces and grand-nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Jenny (Mabe) Martin, sister, Ardis (Martin) Prater, and half brother and sister-in law, Jack and Lindy Martin.

Neil is loved and will be greatly missed. He will be remembered for his love of life, strong spirit, gregarious personality and his kind and loving soul. Neil had the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere and always had a kind word to share with those around him. Among Neil’s last wishes were that his body be cremated. At his request no services will be held. To honor Neil’s request and to celebrate his life, his ashes will be spread at a location that brought him great joy.