Robert J. Martin

November 26, 1924 - November 17, 2018

Robert John Martin, age 93, of Washington, Iowa, passed away Saturday, November 17, 2018 at the United Presbyterian Home. A private graveside service and interment with military honors will be held at Elm Grove Cemetery in Washington at a later date. Memorials have been established for Hospice of Washington County and Paws & More Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be sent for Robert’s family through the web at www.jonesfh.com Robert was born November 26, 1924 in Kahoka, Missouri, the son of John Adam and Dorothea “Dena” (Koehler) Martin. He graduated from Crawfordsville High School and served honorably in the United States Army during WWII. Robert was united in marriage to Anna Margarete Gartner on December 25, 1947 in Frankfort, Germany. She preceded him in death in 2001. Robert attended jewelry school in Los Angeles, California and became a Certified Gemologist. He later worked for J. Herbert Hall Company in Pasadena, California for 10 years and owned Martin Jeweler in Los Angeles, California for 30 years. Robert was a member of the American Gem Society and the United Presbyterian Church in Washington. He is remembered for his recitation of poetry and Shakespeare and his love of crossword puzzles. He had a dignified, kind and gentle manner and a deep love for all animals. He is survived by his longtime companion, Virginia Smith of Washington, IA and her children: Vicki (Linden) Brinning of Columbus Junction, IA; Vince (Pat Holmes) Smith of Washington, IA; Denise (Gary) Gage of Letts, IA; and Diane (Don) Adams of Washington, IA; and her 4 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, George Martin of Kahoka, MO; sister: Ruth Wittmer of Springfield, MO; sister-in-law, Maxine Martin of Washington, IA; and several nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and brothers, Joe and Paul Martin.