William "Matt" Martin

William “Matt” Martin of Port Orchard passed away peacefully on December 25, 2023.

Matt was born on January 15, 1930, in Hamilton, Ohio to Matt and Christina Martin. He had four brothers—Shelby, Wayne, Jimmy, Elmer and one sister, Mary.

Matt is survived by his wife Jeanette of 42 years. He was the proud father of two daughters, Beverly Jean and Donna. He was blessed with four grandchildren, Matthew, Debbie, Cory and Connor, and five great-grandchildren Maddie, Parker, Aidan, Judah, Fisher. Matt was preceded in death by his first wife Betty Martin and his son Jack Monette.

Matt lived in Kitsap County since 1951. He served in the Navy during the Korean war from July 18, 1949, to February 27, 1953. He worked at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard as an industrial engineer for 32 years, retiring in 1985 from the public works department.

In 1979, Matt built the family home in Port Orchard that they continue to enjoy. In 2000, he and his wife started an engraving business, “M & M Engravers”, in the basement of their home and served the community for 20 years.

One of Matt’s passions was bowling, and since 1985, bowled in 3 leagues at the Hi-Joy Bowling alley. During his bowling tenure, Matt bowled 5 perfect (300) games! He was also a bowling instructor. Quoting Matt, “Providing bowling instruction is a real enjoyment especially when you can see improvement in the students.”

Matt was a 60-year member of the Masonic Lodge starting when he was 34 years old. He served as Worshipful Master of the Order in 1973, and as Secretary for 4 years until 1978. Matt was also a member of Bremerton Valley of Scottish Rite, Port Orchard Chapter 44, Order of Eastern Star. In the State Lodge, Matt served as Deputy of the Grand Master for District 12-Kitsap, Mason and Pierce Counties. He was also the Chairman of the Masonic Research and Education Committee, from 1979-1980. Matt served as Grand Marshal of the State Order in 1981 and held the title of the Most Worshipful.

At age 54, Matt became the first person in Kitsap County to be named the State Grand Master which is the highest held position in the Masons.

Matt was a member of the Port Orchard Toastmasters and the Southpark Assembly of God Church.
Matt was known to be a quiet man yet made a huge impact in his community and family by the way he lived his life. He lived with the upmost integrity and honor, serving others selflessly. He was kind-hearted, caring and generous, putting others before himself.

The family would like to invite you to a visitation held on January 5, 2024, from 3:00-6:00 pm at Rill Chapel located at 1151 Mitchell Avenue, Port Orchard, WA.

A memorial service will be held at the Masonic Temple on January 13, 2024, at 2:00 pm. It is located at 878- 5th Street, Bremerton, WA.