Mr. Charles Ray Martin's Obituary
Charles Ray Martin passed away in the early hours of December 24, 2015 in his home of 52 years in Oakland, California. He was born January 20, 1927 to Orris and Mary Martin in Oakland. Loving husband of Kathleen O’Connell Martin. He moved to San Francisco at age seven. After graduating high school, Charles enlisted and served eighteen months in the U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division in World War II. He was stationed in Korea during the occupation of that country. He was a 1951 graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, followed by graduate studies. He was a certified public accountant and worked for nine years as an auditor for Price Waterhouse. In 1961, Charles married Kathleen, who he affectionately called “Kid”. They met in the Old Saint Mary’s Center hiking group and both continued their love of hiking/walking as long as they were able to. Together they raised four sons. In 1962, he joined the Oakland Redevelopment Agency as a fiscal officer. In 1963, they moved to Oakland. When the Redevelopment Agency was absorbed by the City of Oakland, he worked for the City, until his retirement in 1992. He was an avid reader and collector of books, stamps and World War II memorabilia. Charles was a devout Catholic and strived to live his faith. In later years, when his eyes failed him and he could no longer read, he devoted much time to prayer. He will be remembered for his faith, his devotion to his family and his sense of humor.Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen of 54 years; children, Charles Jr. (Christine), John, Joseph (Tess), and Thomas; grandchildren, Jennifer, Charles III, Michael, Matthew, and Mark, brother Robert, and nephews and nieces.He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Michael Fred.The family wishes to thank his caregivers, who made it possible for Charles to spend his final months at home: Ramon, Mara, Mary, Julie and Karmela. A viewing will be held Friday, January 8, 2016 from 3-7pm with a rosary at 6pm at Chapel of the Chimes 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA. A funeral mass will be held Saturday, January 9 at 11:00 am St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 176 Ridgeway Avenue, Oakland, CA.
Charles Ray Martin
Jan. 20, 1927 ~ Dec. 24, 2015
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