September 16, 1949 – March 14, 2026 

Don was born September 16, 1949, in San Diego, California. He spent his younger years in Southern California and graduated from Magnolia High School in Anaheim in 1967.

In 1973, he met Ruth, the love of his life and best friend. In 1977, they got married in Lake Tahoe, NV (Cave Rock) and shared 48 years of marriage, building a life rooted in loyalty, hard work, and unconditional love for their family. In 1985 and 1989, Don and Ruth chose to become parents through adoption and gave their children, Clint and Julie, a strong, loving foundation. After becoming a father, Don wanted a slower pace of life and moved to Northern Nevada in 1994.

Don was a respected grading and paving contractor in the Carson Valley for many years that originated from Southern California with his business partner, Gary Cole. He believed in working hard, treating people fairly, and providing a good life for his family. He was a man of quiet strength, loud laughter, and a generous heart.

His greatest joy of living was becoming a grandfather to his five grandchildren. The best memories that Don has with his family were created through activities that he was most fond of including traveling, boating, camping, skiing, hiking, golfing, baseball, and attending concerts.

He is survived by his loving wife Ruth, his children Clint and Julie, his grandchildren Connor, Carter, Madison, Hunter, and Blake, and his brother Michael Martin. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Martin and Shirley Newell, and his sister, Susan Reynolds.

More than anything, Don will be remembered for the life he built with his family. He was the kind of man who made sure his kids were taken care of, supported, and always knew they were going to be okay. His family finds peace knowing he spent his final moments surrounded by love, just as he had spent his life surrounding them with his. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.