Earl Ray Martin

Earl Ray Martin, fondly known as "Bud" was a beloved father, grandpa "Pops", brother, uncle, and friend. Born November 29, 1936, he passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by his loving family.

Bud was the eldest child of Earl Ray Martin and Helen Miraldi Martin. He was born in Chicago, Illinois and as a young boy moved with his family to San Jose, California. He graduated from James Lick High School in 1954 and went to work at Pittsburgh Des Moines Steel Company (PDM). At the age of 26, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving 2 years in Germany. After his service, he returned to PDM, where he worked as a purchasing manager. 

In 1965, Bud married Linda Chase, and together they raised two sons, Brad and Vince. Being a father was his greatest honor and his sons were his proudest accomplishment. In 1981, Bud and Linda moved their family to Kaysville, Utah. Though they were later divorced, they remained friends over the years. Linda was by his side along with the family when Bud passed away. Bud made Kaysville his home for 44 years, where he formed lifelong friendships with neighbors. He was known as "The mayor of Flint Street"; he was never shy about making a ruckus with the city when something needed attention. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his next door neighbors, the Cox family and the Pratts, for their consant friendship and countless acts of help over the years; to Becky across the street for her listening ear and cherished friendship; and to members of the ward, who were always ready to lend a hand - whether cleaning up leaves in each fall, bringing meals, or simply being good friends and neighbors.

After relocating to Utah, Bud continued his lifelong career in the steel industry when he took a position at Arrow which later became Fabriweld and devoted his entire career to the steel industry.

Bud was a gifted bowler who nearly went pro with the PBA, once rolling an impressive 288 game. Sadly, an accident at the steel company crushed his arm, preventing him from competing at that level. Still, his love for the sport endured, and he found great joy in playing in local leagues at Davis Lanes. 

He loved the times when his grandchildren, Aly, Zach, Sam, Brody, and Jessica came to play in his big backyard with the stream running through it. He would stand outside and watch them play with a big smile on his face.

Bud loved watching old western movies, especially those starring John Wayne. He had a whole wall of pictures and Memorabilia in his house dedicated to "The Duke". He left this world with the same thing he always carried through it - a quick wit and a sense of humor that never wavered. Even in his final days when speech was difficult, he managed to share a few jokes, making us all laugh at such a difficult time.

Bud is survived by his two sons, Brad (Cindy), and Vince; five grandchildren, Alyssa, Zach, Samantha (Nick), Jessica (Ryan) and Brody (Kaytlyn); eight great grandchildren, Cruz, Charlie, Stetson, Theodore, Beau, Rowan, Rhett, and Walker; his sister Sheryn (Frank); a nephew Frankie, and a niece Sunday (Brian).

Their family extends their deepest gratitude to Active Home Health and Hospice Care, Sunridge Assisted Living in Layton, and Chancellor Gardens for their compassionate care and support.

Friends may come to bid farewell to Bud at a viewing on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary 1585 W 300 S in Syracuse.