Kent Martin

Kent Christie Martin, 91, of Alto, NM sadly left us on July 16, 2024, following complications due to an infection.

Kent was born and raised in Aurora, Illinois and after graduating high school he enlisted in the United States Army following the outbreak of the Korean War. He was stationed in Germany and served as a driver. Upon his return home he had a full career as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement to Alto, NM in 1995.

Kent's biggest passion in life was his wife, Joan Arthurs, whom he met working as a counselor at a Boy Scout Camp during high school. Jean was his world and together they followed his other passions which included a love of European Sports Cars and history. Over their lifetimes they owned many cars, everything from Kents first car, a Willys Jeepster to Datson Roadsters, TVR's, a Jaguar, and Austin Healy, and a BMW Sports Coup. Both Joan and Kent competed in car racing events, both possessing that need for speed.

The couple also had a love of history and participated in re-enactment events of the French and Indian Wars (1754-1763) where Kent portrayed a character from Rogers Rangers. Joan sewed some of his period clothing. The two of them were avid canoeists with Kent being a self-proclaimed "Master of the J stroke". They traveled to many of the Great Lakes and toured Forts and places of historical value with their Scotty Dogs.

Everyone knew Kent as a colorful character who was always happy to talk to anyone about his life experiences. He was very social, had a great sense of humor, and loved animals and nature. He was very proud of his Scottish Heritage and was seldom seen without his Scottish Tam on his head. He was one of a kind and left a large wake upon leaving a room.

He is survived by nieces and nephews Patricia Woodward Thompson, Robyn Woodward Lako, Wade Woodward, George Woodward, and Thomas Woodward. He is survived by Joan Arthurs children Leanne Skokan, Valerie Millen, and James Millen.

He is preceded in death by father Jack Martin, mother Nina Martin, sister Patricia Martin Woodward and wife Joan Arthurs Martin.

When asked if he accomplished everything that he set out to do in this lifetime, his answer was a resounding yes. His life was a life well lived.

Slainte my friend.