Martinache, Richard LeRoy 1939-2005

MARTINACHE, DAILEY, SMITH

Posted By: volunteer (email)
Date: 10/3/2005 at 20:22:02

Richard LeRoy Martinache was born on June 7, 1939, in Knoxville to Earl Martinache and Hilda (Dailey) Martinache.

He was raised in the Red Rock area and at the age of 17 he enlisted in the United States Navy. Dick served five years before his honorable discharge in 1961.

Following his discharge he married Mona Smith in California. The couple lived in California for many years and Dick drove a semi for the Gallo Winery. He eventually moved back to Knoxville and worked for a highline electrical crew. He then returned to California and for the last 20 years he has made Knoxville his home. For the last 17 years Dick as been employed by Van Gorp manufacturing in Pella.

In his spare time, Dick enjoyed hunting, fishing and being with his friends. His other great joy was his beloved dog, Dingo, who he spent countless hours with.

He was a member of the American Legion.

Dick died on Sept. 14, at the Knoxville V.A. Medical Center at the age of 66.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Hilda.

Survivors include three sons, Richard Martinache of Reno, Nev., Mike Ross of Sioux Falls, S.D. and Steve Kline of Placerville, Calif.; one daughter, Candy Messner of North Bend, Ore.; father, Earl Martinache (Lu) of Knoxville; brothers, Jerry (Julie) of Phoenix, Ariz. and Don (Karen) of Monroe; a sister, Joan Ver Steeg (Alan) of Knoxville; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild and many other family members and friends.

Funeral services were held on Sept. 16 at Bybee and Davis Funeral Home with Pastor Leo Freel officiating.

Interment was in Ruckman Cemetery in rural Marion County. Military Honors were provided by The United States Navy, American Legion Baty-Tucker Post No. 168 and the V.F.W. John Myers Post No. 3519.

Memorials may be made to the Knoxville Raceway Charitable Organization.

The Knoxville Journal Express, September 23, 2005