Gordon Martinell

Gordon E. Martinell, 89, passed away Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at his home in Big Sheep Creek, Dell, MT. He was born November 6, 1932, in Hood River, Oregon, the son of Paul and Dorothy Martinell, Dell, Montana. He grew up at the Martinell ranch in Dell. After graduating from Lima High School, he attended Montana State University and was drafted by the Army. While in the Army, he married Gladys Handy of Idaho Falls, Idaho on June 21, 1958. After their time at Fort Ord, they returned to Sheep Creek.  There were interim moves to Idaho: Salmon and Idaho Falls; but Big Sheep Creek beckoned them home and they returned to Montana in the late 70s. Gordon spent his life doing what he loved most; ranching in Big Sheep Creek Basin, and spending time with his family. A loving husband and father, he was a kind, generous, and honest man.  Known as a great stockman, horseman, and rancher, he filled his day’s training and driving horse teams, while also raising sheep and cattle, surrounded by the mountains he loved. He was a rock of stability and a source of strength for his family and others. He is survived by his loving wife and lifelong partner, Gladys Martinell, Dell, MT; children, Gail Kisling, Idaho Falls, ID, Bill (Kris) Martinell, Dell, MT, Kim Martinell, Dillon, MT, and Marla Martinell, Pocatello, ID; grandchildren, Nicholia (Drew) Canfield, Shelby (Kris Young) Martinell, Hailey Kisling, Parker Jones, Skylar Martinell, McKenna Jones, and Justin Martinell; great-grandkids, Kannon, Emerson, and Dylan Canfield; and his trusted four-legged companion, Jake.  He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Everett. Graveside services for Gordon are Saturday, Aug 27 at 11 AM at Mountain View Cemetery, 934 Sweetwater Road. A Celebration of Life, in Gordon's honor, will follow in Dillon at the outdoor picnic grove, between the Museum and Depot, 25 N Montana St. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Lima Swimming Pool or Lima Fire Department at P.O. Box 161 Lima, MT 59739.