Martin Dean ("Marty") Block

Martin Dean (“Marty”) Block died peacefully in his sleep on March 4, 2025 at his mother’s home in Denver, Colorado.   He was born on September 30, 1967 in Cozad, Nebraska to Melvin Dean and Linda (“Young”) Block.   

Marty lived a full life in his 57 years, but his last few years were filled with a number of medical issues.  He persevered through all those problems with determination and fortitude until he just couldn’t do it anymore. 

Marty was a master carpenter and crafted many beautiful homes, wine cellars and exquisite staircases.  His unique vision was evident in all his work.  He had an engineering mind and way of approaching many projects that were awe inspiring.   

He grew up on the mountain at Purgatory Ski Resort and was a skillful skier and skateboarder.  He graduated from Durango High School in 1985.  He soon moved to Hawaii and honed his craft building custom homes.  He later lived in Avon, Colorado and eventually lived in Denver, Colorado.   

Marty successfully entered into sobriety in the early 2000’s and remained sober for over 22 years.  Through his associations with AA and CA, he was very instrumental in helping many folks recover from their addictions and go on to live productive and successful lives.  Many of his sponsors credited Marty with literally saving their lives.  He led meetings at the Denver City Jail AA for over 200 sessions, never missing a meeting even on the holidays.  His dedication and devotion to helping others recover was inspirational.   

He is predeceased by his father, Melvin, his grandparents Bill and Mary Young and Marvin and Dorene Block.  He is also predeceased by his uncles Gordon and Cliff Young and cousin Cynthia Young.  He is survived by his mother, Linda Block, his sister Caryn Johnson, nephew Austin Johnson and niece Allison Johnson, his aunts Birgit Young and Diane Young, his cousins Susan Iskowich and Will Young, as well as his half brother Jeff Block, uncle Charles Block and aunt DeAnne Stueben.    He is also survived by his dear friend Trish Ramsey. 

Marty was a brave man who approached life and death his own way.  We are all very proud of him.