Martin Hoxworth

Martin Ira Hoxworth, age 80 passed away from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), Wednesday June 19, 2019, at home with his two boys by his side. He was born on Dec 3, 1938 in San Pedro, California to Grace and Robert Hoxworth. Martin grew up in San Pedro, attended San Pedro High School, and graduated from Long Beach State.

Martin was passionate about flying airplanes. He was a Senior Observer, flying over 500 hours in planes. He was an Aircraft Electrician, Director of Staff, HR for Flight Tests, and a Medical Administrator at McDonnell Douglas and Boeing. He also worked at the Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, retiring from there in November 1996. The love of airplanes grew while he was in the Air Force as an Aircraft Electrician. From 1961-1965, he loaded B-52's with bombs for Vietnam. He earned medals as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Air Force and Civil Air Patrol, volunteering for over 50 years and therefore visiting any base he wanted. Always willing to help and get involved, Martin has worn many hats at the Garden Grove Elks Lodge, and there isn't much space on his office wall left for any more plaques or badges! He is a Life Member, and was President of the Elk Enders in 1997-1998, Chairman of the Board in 2003-2004, Past Chairman of The Elks Rally in 2005, Treasurer of The Elks Rally in 2014, Director of The Strawberry Festival for 10 years, President of the Strawberry Festival Project in 2007, Elk of the Month, Past Officer of the Year, and Elk of the Year. to name a few!!

Martin and Marcia were married 47 years. Martin’s wife Marcia passed away in January of 2016. Martin fell in love with her long before he would ever marry her. He met her at Marine Land in 1957, where she worked. He attempted many times to get a date, and she didn't accept until he called her mother about wanting the same coffee pot model Marcia had, and therefore, was somewhat forced to help Martin find one! What a clever excuse! With perseverance paying off, they married 10 years later, on November 24,1967 (and he still has that coffee pot!). "Martin & Marcia" were always the couple at the Lodge that brightened it with their presence, laughter helpfulness, and generosity.

He is survived by his two sons Marcus and Michael, Daughter-in-laws Karen and Becky, and five grandchildren Ashley, David, Mikel, Clayton, Brandi and Dylan.

A celebration of life will be held at the Garden Grove Elks Lodge at 11am on July 12, 2019.