Martin “Marty” Miles Mathis peacefully set off on his next great expedition on April 12, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born under the California sun on March 15, 1957, in Yuba City, Marty grew up in Manteca, where the roots of his story began. It was there he met Sara, the love of his life, at Manteca High School. They celebrated his 18th birthday together in a white AMC Matador, and from that moment on, their souls were entwined. For the next 50 years, they built a life rich in love, laughter, family, and shared dreams.

Marty often said, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day.” As a teenager, he worked for his father-in-law at Cabral Western Motors, but everything changed when he took a river trip with his dad, Art. The Canyon spoke to him, and the water cast its spell. From that moment forward, the river called him home.

In 1986, Marty and Sara followed that call to Utah with their one-year-old daughter, Allison, and began building a life shaped by wild places and bold dreams. His best buddy, Adam, joined the crew four years later, and the grand expedition grew.

Marty had the heart of an artist and the spirit of a storyteller. He doodled on everything, strummed his guitar, turned trash into treasure, and created beauty wherever he went. His yard and home were his sanctuary, and he and Sara turned it into a paradise. After a long day of yard work, they would celebrate with a “gloat walk” and a cocktail in hand.

After a series of fortunate events, Marty bought Grand Canyon Expeditions with Don Saunders and Michael Denoyer. Over the next 40+ years, he created the work environment of his dreams through vision, grit, and an unshakable belief in people. His crew wasn’t just a team; they were a family bound by respect, river stories, and shared sunrises.

With a magnetic charm and a laugh that echoed, Marty made friends wherever he went—on riverbanks, elevators, and grocery store aisles. He loved deeply and freely, never shying from a heartfelt “I love you” or a bear hug.

He lived fully, loved wildly, and left this world better than he found it.

Marty is survived by his soulmate, Sara Jane Mathis; his beloved children, Allison (Chase) Carlin and Adam Mathis; his adored grandchildren, Miles and Claire Carlin; his siblings, Charm Mathis and Randy Mathis; and family and friends who are like family. Marty touched so many people.  

The river runs on, but it will always carry echoes of Marty—his laughter in the rapids, his stories in the canyon walls, and his spirit in every bend.

Big water and blue skies, Pa.

We will love you always and miss you forever.

A celebration of Marty will be held on May 10, 2025, from 2-5 PM, in their home located at 2920 East 750 South, Kanab, Utah.