Delbert Jay Martin, age 72, returned to the loving arms of his Father in Heaven on Thursday, April 13, 2017.

Del was born on July 18, 1944 in Ogden, Utah and was the fourth of five children to join the family of Clifford Delmont Martin and Hazel Ann Sartori. Del was a shy, softhearted child who was always kind but also fiercely protective of his sisters. He had a fondness for animals which went hand in hand with his love for the outdoors. As a boy he would follow his father around the yard helping plant fruits and vegetables which he would later help his mother cook or can in the kitchen. He was among the first graduating class at Clearfield High School and later attended Weber State College. Here, Del was able to fully realize his passion for music and enjoyed singing in show choir quartets. He had an amazing voice and could harmonize with just about anyone. Musical instruments also came easily to him and he played several, favoring the guitar and violin most. He never lost this love of music and found joy participating in ward choirs and singing with his family throughout his life. Del loved to share the gospel and was beyond thrilled to be called to serve the Navajo People in the South West Indian Mission. Upon completing his mission, he joined the Army National Guard, serving his country in this capacity for 28 years. He later worked at Hill Air Force Base where he remained until he retired. More than anything though, Del loved Marilee. Marilee Kirkbride was his best friend and became his eternal companion when they were married for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on February 8, 1968. Early in their marriage, Del and Marilee moved to Clearfield, Utah, where they were blessed with three beautiful daughters. They later built a home in Roy, Utah where they gave birth to their fourth child, a son. Del spent the rest of his years happy in this home, side by side with his sweetheart, as they raised their four kids. Del was a humble and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who exemplified sacrifice, service, hard work, patience, and love. Del was a member of the LDS church and loved serving the Lord. He served faithfully in a variety callings throughout his life, including Elders Quorum President, High Councilman, High Priest Group Leader and Temple Worker. He loved life, and it showed by the smile that always radiated from his face. He was friendly and kind to all he came in contact with because he genuinely loved everyone. His capacity to love made all who knew him feel like they were his best friend. Golfing, singing, yard work, cooking, movie nights with his wife, and playing games with friends were some of the joys in his life. His greatest joy however, was spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, whom he adored. Del was preceded in death by his parents and older brother Gordon Martin. He is survived by his wife Marilee Kirkbride Martin and their four children: Amee (Dusty) Roe, Star, Idaho; Cindee (Kenton) Nelson, Clinton; Jaimee (Sam) Moffit, Kaysville; Michael (Maryanne) Martin, Saratoga Springs. Del is also survived by 13 grandchildren and his siblings Darlene, Sonja, and Melanie. Friends may visit with the family Friday, April 21st from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist's Roy Mortuary, 3333 West 5600 South, Roy, Utah and Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Roy North Utah LDS Stake Center. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Roy North Utah LDS Stake Center, 2450 South 2175 West, Roy. Interment, Syracuse City Cemetery.