Thad Christopher Martin

With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to Thad Christopher Martin. Thad passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 10, 2023 at the age of 55. The cause of death is not yet known, though he had been in poor health for several years prior. Thad was smart, creative and caring, with a great sense of humor. He was born and raised in Sacramento, California (five years to the day after his sister, Karisa) to Phyllis and LaRue (Pepper) Martin. Thad attended Starr King School, where his father also taught, from kindergarten through eighth grade. At the age of six, he contracted spinal meningitis, which took his hearing, but spared his life. His family and many friends learned sign language to better communicate. Thad was able to continue at his neighborhood schools with his friends, thanks to his parents' advocacy. He was active in the youth group at Good Shepherd Lutheran, his family's Church. Thad attended El Camino Fundamental High school, where he ran cross country, graduating as one of the Salutatorians. A ceramic sculptor, Thad earned his B.A. and M.F.A. at UC Berkeley, where he was active in the deaf community. He went on to teach art at UC Davis. While there, he met his wife, Susan Wilson, a fellow artist. They soon moved to Austin, Texas and had two children, René, Tala, and many beloved dogs along the way. Thad enjoyed life immensely and made many friends wherever he went; because of this he was a great community builder. He was involved in various art communities both in California and Texas and his sculptures were included in De’VIA’s Touring Exhibit of Deaf Culture Art, which toured the country. Though he was a sculptor, he also deeply enjoyed writing, both poetry and prose. His passion for bringing people together combined with his love of food lead him to join with local food producers to create food co-ops and buying clubs. His interests also extended to his excitement in how his family grew to include ABEC Inc., a biotech company working with cultured meat and pharmaceuticals. Thad is survived by his wife Susan, son René, daughter Tala, his parents Phyllis and Pepper Martin, his sisters Leslie Martin Bergh (Doug), Karisa Martin Bohon (Mark), and Kathy Jewell (John), as well as in-laws, nephews, and nieces across the country. In memory of him, consider sending a donation to a favorite charity or to an art organization Thad supported: Surdists United De’VIA Bay Area Deaf Arts Deaf Austin Theatre We will miss you in more ways than words can say. Love lives forever.

Thad Christopher Martin

October 11, 1967 - July 10, 2023