James Douglass Martin

James Douglass Martin, passed away May 4, 2024, i n Torrance, California at 91 years old. He was predeceased by his parents Earl and Marian as well as his brother Christopher and one daughter Patricia Koontz. Jim was a proud husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He i s survived by his wife of 66 years Mary, daughter Angela (William Scottini), grandsons Ryan Scottini, Jimmy Koontz (Sakura) and great-grandfather of Tatsuki and Aira Koontz.

Born June 29th, 1932 i n Los Angeles, California, Jim spent the majority of his life i n the Los Angeles area. When he was young, his family moved several times to be near the movie studio .his father was currently working as a film editor. They eventually settled i n North Hollywood where Jim graduated from North Hollywood High School. After serving time i n the Army where he was stationed i n Washington DC, he returned to California and became a police officer for the Gardena Police Department. He met his future wife Mary early i n his career when his fellow officer stopped at her job while they were on patrol and introduced them. Mary, originally from Arkansas, stole his heart and became his life-long love. Together, Jim and Mary raised their daughters, i n Gardena and Torrance. Jim retired from the police force i n 1985 as a detective and began to work at the Normandie Casino as head of security where Mary was the accounting manager. After retiring again, he enjoyed becoming a grandpa for the second time, and later a great grandpa twice. He also l oved Wednesday morning breakfast at his favorite spot Eat at Joe’s, usually i n the company of a friend or grandson. Thursday night at the Elks Lodge with his police buddies was a constant along with enjoying their friends and second home i n Palm Desert.

Jim was a fun-loving guy and was known for his practical jokes and pranks both at work and at home. He liked to l augh and regularly could be seen with a smirk on his face because of a funny thought on his mind. He l oved telling stories, possibly embellished, about his time i n the military and his years as a member of the Gardena Police department. Those stories will be missed by all who love him.

Funeral services will be held for Jim on Thursday, May 16th, 2024 at 12pm at Green Hills Memorial Park, 27501 S Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275.