Martin Medellin (93) passed away on Wednesday, July 24th from complications of congestive heart failure. He was a long time resident of Madera having moved here with his parents and seven brothers and sisters from Texas. He attended Howard Elementary School in his youth and only recently in 2014 did he receive an Honorary Diploma from Madera High School (his enlistment in the U.S. Army was an interruption in his schooling).

Along with four brothers whom all proudly served in the military during World War II, he distinguishing himself and was awarded a Silver Star, Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his contributions. He considered the U. S Army as a career path until he met his soul-mate, Madeline, with whom he shared his life with for over 69 years until her passing in 2017. Together they raised their daughters Toni and Judie and son Reg.

He possessed a social and athletic prowess that kept him active in local organizations in his early adult life. He even enjoyed participating in baseball and bowling leagues during that time. His introduction to golf was transformational for him and he pursued it with a passion forging many lasting friendships and social interactions. When continuing knee problems preventing him to continue with golf he turned his energies and time to what would be his all time favorite organization, the VFW. He thoroughly enjoyed his participation and activities with his fellow veterans. He was instrumental in modeling a distinguished Honor Guard Squad that not only serviced Madera but other San Joaquin Valley cities. He was most proud of this contribution.

His most endearing quality was his ability to connect with people and put them at ease. With a large extended family he thoroughly enjoyed family get-togethers and events where he could interact (and sing) with his siblings and all his nephews and nieces; He could meet a total stranger socially and then bring them home to dinner with the family; He enjoyed serenading a relative or friend with “Las Mananitas” or other Mexican songs for their special event; He relished in the camaraderie he had with his sports buddies and would go out of his way to help a friend in need. It is a quality many of us aspire to achieve -- he will be sadly missed by many.

He is preceded in death by his wife Madeline, daughter Judie and grandson Kevin.

Martin is survived by his daughter Toni and son Reg (partner Ron Petty), grandchildren Rob (partner Stephanie Kenyon), Jamie; great grandchildren Maddie, Tommy, Cheyanne and Alyssa. His canine pets Joey and Radar whom he loved dearly.

Visitation will be on Thursday, August 8, 2019 from 2 to 7PM at Jay Chapel with a recitation of the rosary and vigil service following at 7:00 PM

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 9, 2019 at 11:00 AM at St. Joachim’s Church. Veteran Honors will follow at Calvary Cemetery with entombment in the Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Remembrances can be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Madera, CA and St. Joachim’s Church and School.