Edsell Howard Martin

With the strength of a mighty lion and the grace of a poet, Edsell Howard Martin left for heaven at 5:00 pm, the traditional close of the work day, on Friday, April 29, 2016. He was surrounded by loving daughters, son-in-law and his cherished partner Mazie Jean Hastings. Edsell left with dignity and grace to be with Heavenly Father. A working man self-employed for his life from his teens in Tucamcare, New Mexico to his last years in Farmer's Markets and Art and Craft shows in Tucson, Green Valley and regularly in the Show Low Farmer's Market. He worked with native mesquite and became an artist after retiring. He was a devoted father and husband. He supported each of his daughters in 4-H projects, Jobs Daughters and school activities. Together the family went camping; everyone learned to fish and Edsell was a good marksman and provided deer every hunting season. He played guitar; his daughters still singing his favorite hymns together at his passing. The last years of his life he met Mazie and they had five glorious years and moved from "desert rats" to the White Mountains and their little cottage in the woods. In September he chose to be home as heart disease took its toll; he was courageous with a memorable sense of humor. He was a Master Mason, CABAR Shrine, Order of the Eastern Star and Southern Star #71 and MIZPAH #57 in Show Low and Worthy Patron twice. From his family, his many friends and Mazie and his little "Maggie" we'll miss him--Soft and Safe To Thee, dear Edsell.He is survived by his 3 daughters: Laura Hernandez of Prescott Valley, Arizona, Madeline Sims of San Diego, California and Ginger Davidson of Greeley, Colorado; 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren and his loving partner Mazie Hastings.A memorial service is planned for Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 11:00 am at the White River Lodge, 741 E. Whipple Dr. in Show Low, Arizona. Arrangements were handled by Owens Livingston Mortuary-White Mountain Chapel in Show Low, Arizona.