James Francis Martin; Simi Valley Machinist

Simi Valley resident James Francis Martin died Wednesday after a lengthy illness. He was 55.

Martin was born July 25, 1943, in Brooklyn, N.Y., and moved with his family to Van Nuys in 1944. He attended Van Nuys High School and served in the U.S. Navy from 1962 to 1964.

Martin met his wife, Carol, through a mutual friend and the couple were married June 20, 1967. They lived in the Van Nuys area for a year before moving to Canoga Park. In 1977, Martin and his wife moved to Simi Valley to raise their children.

Throughout his adult life, Martin worked as a machinist, his family said.

Martin was a volunteer at Simi Valley Hospital and cared for an elderly man who was ill.

“He enjoyed his family and friends. That was his life,” said Martin’s daughter, Carol Grogg of Seal Beach.

Martin is survived by his wife and daughter; a son, Robert James Martin of Simi Valley; a brother, Richard Martin of North Hollywood; a sister, Teri White of Ventura; and two grandchildren.

There will be a viewing from 1 to 9 p.m. Monday at Forest Lawn Mortuary in Hollywood Hills. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Forest Lawn with interment to follow.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice of Conejo Valley.