Obituary: Ronald David Martinez

Ronald ("Ronnie") David Martinez, age 72, of Lynnwood, Washington, died on January 19, 2024, at 10:10 a.m., in his home. Ron was born on June 22, 1951, in Clovis, New Mexico to Elijio and Consuelo Martinez. He graduated from New Mexico State University in 1975. After graduation, he began his career as a Chemical Engineer. He married Dana S. Bechtold on December 10, 1994, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together they have two daughters, Abigail Marie, and Jennifer Sue. In March 2001, they moved to Lynnwood, Washington. Shortly after they moved to Washington, Dana was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and passed away on March 21, 2006.

Ron was a rising musician in the Seattle folk music scene, making appearances in Grumpy D's music group, Northwest Folklife, and local cafes including the Newsroom and the Lions Den. Ron had a deep love for music, guitars, and emotionally honest song lyrics. He has recorded and released 3 original singles that he was incredibly proud of.

He is survived by his daughters, Abigail Marie, and Jennifer Sue. Abigail is an Emergency Room & Trauma Nurse in Albuquerque, NM, and Jennifer is an Intellectual Property Attorney in Milwaukee, WI. Both daughters credit Ron's support as the foundation of their success. Ron is also survived by many other dear family members and friends. Ron is now reunited with the love of his life, Dana S. Bechtold Martinez, who preceded him in death, as well as his mother, father, and sister Martha.