Martin Anderson Obituary

MARTIN ANDERSON Martin Anderson passed away in Palo Alto, CA on October 15, 2023. Born in Los Angeles, CA on November 16, 1923, he embarked on a remarkable journey that touched the lives of many. Martin spent his grammar school years in San Francisco and graduated from Punahou, where he made his mark by breaking a pole-vaulting record in 1942. His journey of excellence continued at Stanford University, where he served as Student Body President, captain of the track team in 1946 and later captain of the football team, earning an A.B. in 1948 and an LL.B. in 1949. It was during his time at Stanford that he met the love of his life, Mary Ilma "Illie" Costigan, whom he cherished for 61 years. Martin's dedication extended to the U.S. Marine Corps, where he enlisted during World War II. He saw active duty from 1943 to 1946 and again during the Korean War in 1950-1951, serving in historic campaigns such as the Inchon Landing and the Chosin Reservoir. He retired from the Marine Corps Reserve as a Colonel after 33 years. An accomplished trial attorney, Martin retired from his law firm, Goodsill, Anderson, Quinn & Stifel, in December 2006. His life was marked by extraordinary experiences, including managing the 1.5 million acre Galana cattle and game ranch in Kenya from 1967 to 1990, co-owning the Heavenly Valley Ski Area in Lake Tahoe for 25 years, serving as a board member for Stanford University and Hawaii Pacific University, Chairman of the Hoover Board of Overseers from 1993 to 1995 and as a Distinguished Overseer for the remainder of his life. His enduring commitment to business ventures in American Samoa, Hawaii, and Kenya showcased his unwavering spirit. Martin's wife, Illie, preceded him in death (Sept. 2009). He is survived by his daughter, Christen Docker, son-in-law, Rick Docker, granddaughter, Heather Docker, grandson, Blaine Docker (Mary Docker), great-grandchildren Violet, London, and Martin Docker. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal service to commemorate his remarkable life. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to make remembrances to one of the following: Hoover Institution www.hoover.org 434 Galvez Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305 or World Wildlife Fund www.worldwildlife.org 1250 Twenty-Fourth Street, N.W., P.O. Box 97180, Washington, DC, 20090-7180. To notify family of your gift please note this email address: [email protected] Arrangements Provided By: All County Cremation Services