MADISON - John went peacefully to his eternal rest on Sunday, June 22, 2025. He was born on August 24, 1950, in Madison, Wis., to William “Bill” and Lyla (Olson) Martinson.

John’s life, his sense of humor, determination and feistiness enriched all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He spoke daily of the many years of memories, friendships and duties at MARC West, (which serves individuals with a wide variety of disabilities). John enjoyed all the years of independent living with his roommates, Jeff Drews and Michael Amato.

John is survived by his brother, James (Gail) Martinson; brother-in-law, Roger Banicki; sister-in-law, Sandy Martinson; nieces, Kelly Martinson, Stacy (Dan) Sanford and Jenna Martinson; nephews, Josh (Bry) Martinson, Jake Martinson and Jesse (Lauren) Martinson; grandnieces, Kylana and Parker; and grandnephews, Mason, DJ, Matt and Hunter. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jan Banicki; brother, Jeff Martinson; nephew, Scott Martinson; grandniece, Peyton Martinson; and roommates, Jeff Drews, Michael Amato and Don Conway.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.

We would like to sincerely thank all the caregivers at Lakeview Support Living Services, Phil Brace, Nick, John’s “special Jenny,” Mandi, Julie, Esther, Austin, Roosevelt, Amadou, Aletta, Muhammed, Lisa, Moige and Isatou, and a very special thank you to Joan Slempkes whose special care and love for John showed in everything she did. These are just a few of the many caring individuals who have provided the daily cares, support, friendship, encouragement, structure and dignity to John and his roommates’ daily lives. They are family.

Thank you to Marge Ward for the physical and spiritual care that you provided earlier in John’s life. We would also like to thank Interim Healthcare Home Care and Hospice, especially the caring hospice nurses, Amanda and Erin, Chaplain Gil, and social worker, Ally. Your care, support and guidance for John and our family was truly appreciated.

John will surely be missed by all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to Arts for All Wisconsin or to MARC West.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-540

John Martinson

August 24, 1950 - June 22, 2025

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