Jerry Allen Martinson
Oct. 22, 1934-March 7, 2022
Palo Alto, California

Jerry Allen Martinson, a 54 year resident of Palo Alto, CA passed away peacefully on March 7, 2022. He was 87.

Jerry was born in Traverse City, Michigan on October 22, 1934 to Edwin Martinson and Melva Flourre. He received his B.A. in Botany from University of Michigan and was well ahead of his time in doing post-graduate work at Yale University in Ecological Studies.

Jerry taught middle school math and science for 36 years, most recently with the San Mateo-Foster City School District. He met his wife, Mary Chiorini Martinson, also a math teacher, at Bayside Middle School in 1968. They married in 1978 and had 43 years of true happiness together as soul mates and companions.

Jerry retired from the teaching profession in 1994. In retirement, Jerry volunteered at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and the Palo Alto Food Closet and enjoyed taking small ship cruises in Europe, Canada and to Alaska. After suffering a stroke in 2011, his volunteer work and travels were curtailed, and he found great enjoyment at REACH in Palo Alto. He attributed his recovery to the wonderful therapy and friendship he found there and to the dedicated care he received from his wife and supporting caregivers.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary C. Martinson, his brother Mike Martinson (Denise), brothers and sisters-in-law, 10 nieces and nephews, 23 great nieces and nephews, and 1 great-great nephew. His many nieces and nephews have fond memories of riding rollercoasters and playing games with their beloved “Uncle Jerry.” He is also survived by his cat Max.

Tags: teacher/educator