Helen Martin, long time resident of Pleasanton, died Friday August 14th from complications resulting from a broken hip. The youngest of six children, Helen was born in Emory, South Dakota on December 1, 1936. She grew up during the Great Depression and World War II which instilled a deep faith in God to provide wisdom and strength to face life’s many challenges. Helen and her husband of 63 years, Richard Martin, were active members of the St. Augustine’s Catholic parish since moving to Pleasanton in 1970.
Helen is survived by her husband Richard, her daughters Leslie and Kathleen, her sons Patrick and Richard along with 13 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. She made a point of attending the graduation, first communion, confirmation, weddings and special events for her grandkids which kept her busy traveling between Pleasanton and Tulsa or Indianapolis. Helen was a deeply committed mother and grandmother, desiring to be a part of each family member’s life.
Helen’s worked 20 years as an executive secretary at the Farmers Insurance regional office in Pleasanton where she made many friends.
The one word I think best describes my mother is exquisite. My mother strove in every respect to achieve an extraordinary level of beauty and excellence in all she did. Everything from interior decoration to her stylish wardrobe, from planning a party to decking the house for the Christmas season, from the beauty of her handwriting to the prompt sending of Thank You cards in appreciation of gifts received or dinner invites. In all these matters, my mother sought to bring out the best in all things.
Helen’s funeral is scheduled for Monday, August 24th at 10:00am. There will be a viewing from 8:30 to 9:30 in the church and the Rosary will be said at 9:30 prior to the funeral mass. The location will be the grotto aside the St. Augustine’s church building on Angela Street in Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Hope Hospice.
Hope Hospice & Health Services
6377 Clark Avenue
Suite 100
Dublin, CA 94568-3024
Phone: (925) 829-8770
