Joan Martin, 88, of Arvada, Colorado, Dies

Joan A. Martin (née Bennett), age 88, of Arvada, Colorado died on October 8, 2026. Joan was born in London, England in 1938 to Edward and Edith Bennett (née Dickerson). During World War II, the family evacuated the London Blitz and relocated to Northampton. Joan attended Northampton Grammar School for Girls. While working as a GPO Telephonist she met a handsome, soft-spoken and polite “Yank” in the Cross Keys Pub, in Northampton town center.

Del was in the Air Force stationed at Croughton. They wed, went on to have three children and were married 61 years before Del’s passing in 2018. There was time spent in West Virginia, Oklahoma, Delaware, Maryland, New York and England before a permanent move to Colorado, settling in Aurora. Joan’s first employment in the United States was with Colorado National Bank in downtown Denver.

She went on to work for and retire from the Kaiser Permanente central scheduling department. Several retirement years were rooted in Greeley before making a move to Arvada to be closer to family, what a blessing. Joan came from modest means and memories of the war stuck with her. As an adult she was frugal and never wasteful. She loved a hot “cuppa” tea and fish & chips were a favorite meal.

She was a diligent worker with an eye for detail. When time allowed, she liked reading, knitting and having the “telly” on in the evening. A lover of all things English, PBS programs were a favorite and she was a little obsessed with televised tennis tournaments. Walks were a must: with Del, the dogs, family or especially around the park with her “sweetheart” granddaughter.

Not much would get between her and her exercise classes, or giving something her all. Forever looking on the bright side of life, she was never one to complain. Spending time with family and friends, near and far, over the years fueled her spirit. Musical theater, movies at the cinema, board games on Boxing Day, errand running Saturdays and quiet Sundays were essential.

Joan was stoic, had a stiff upper lip and kept calm and carried on. She never uttered a profane word in her life. Recent years weren’t so kind to “JB,” but she was ever polite and gracious. Joan loved her nearest and dearest beyond belief, thick as thieves. She so missed her “Delboy”…Soul Mates.

Joan is survived by daughter Sharon Martin, son Stephen (Vicki) Martin, daughter Tara (Tom) Marsh and granddaughter Tatum. She is also survived by in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and very dear friends. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Delvin Martin, and her dear sister, Catherine Austin.

If so inclined, donations may be made in Joan’s memory to Foothills Animal Shelter or the Salvation Army. Or remember her with a charitable contribution of your choice. God bless and spare you, bye for now…”loaf” you! Events to honor Joan Martin Sponsored by The Denver Post No events reported for Joan Martin. 0 Entries