Martin Giovannini
Martin (Marty) Giovannini left the world suddenly on August 27, 2020—and left behind an indelible impression with infinite ripples.
Born in Santa Rosa, California, Marty was the eldest of five. His gentle and generous spirit made him a natural caretaker. From his professional roles as a teacher, mediator, and volunteer to his instinctive roles as a father, son, brother, husband, lover and best friend, Marty looked out for others at every turn. “There is nothing more meaningful than a respect for, dedication to, and love of family,“ he said in one of his renowned toasts.
After graduating from Montgomery High School in 1967, Marty earned a Master of Arts degree from Sonoma State University in counseling. That focus and the plan to raise a family, brought him to Oregon in 1981 where he went on to help pioneer the practice of open adoption. He treasured his role as a perpetual student and never ceased in his quest for knowledge about the earthly and celestial. He parlayed his learned and innate talents into being a published author and poet and an award-winning fine art photographer. As an adjunct professor at Chemeketa Community College, he taught black-and-white film photography for more than 20 years.
Black-and-white photography exemplifies the concept of duality, which Marty valued in art and in himself. Although he was introspective, he defaulted to living lightly. He would greet you with a charming smile, a bear hug, an open door and clever humor. Sometimes the punchline was expected; other times, he would disguise jokes meant for keen listeners. A love of reading and crossword puzzles fueled his vocabulary and, in the long pun, helped hone his standout sense of humor.
Marty will be missed beyond measure by his parents, children and grandogger, siblings, dear friends and a large family comprised of blood relatives, exes and kindred spirits.
Good food, good drink, and good company filled his cup. If you would like to honor Marty, start by adopting those basic tenets. Beyond that, consider making a donation to Willamette Valley Hospice, paying a stranger a compliment, speaking to the manager to praise good service, or bringing someone in your life flowers—just because.
Celebration of life plans are pending. Please visit www.martingiovannini.com for the latest.