Mr Martin Craig Steinbrecher's Obituary
Martin Craig Steinbrecher, 68, of Highland, CA, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2015. He was born on July 16, 1946 in Oak Park, Illinois to Helen and Edwin E. Steinbrecher, the youngest of four children. Their German/Bohemian ancestry gifted Marty with stubborn stoicism, grit, and steadfast determination balanced with wise frugality including the ability to squeeze the lifeblood out of a dollar bill.
Marty served 3 years in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He served proudly on an LST delivering mail, movies and rum rations to the combat ships in the fleet. He treasured his adventures in the Navy and his opportunity to serve his country.
Marty's first business adventure, in 1974 was "The Chest", which brought him into the gift industry. He then started California Design Works, Inc. where he began to manufacture ceramics. The first items were hand thrown pieces. In 1978, he met and married the love of his life Debi. California Design Works would later take them from Marina Del Rey to various locations, finally settling permanently in Highland, CA.
His kindness, generosity, and outgoing friendliness made him loved by many. He enjoyed people, spending time with family and friends, traveling and trying new things. He loved to cook. He was the most positive person you could meet, always having positive comments about anyone. Marty was always willing to help in the community. He served many years on the Board of Directors for the Highland Senior Center, was active in Kiwanis and Chamber of Commerce. He will truly be missed, but will forever live on in our hearts.
Marty is preceded in death by his father, Edwin E. Steinbrecher, mother Helen, brother, Edwin, and sister, Ruth and nephew Kenneth.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Debi, daughters, Kristen Kabler of Carlsbad, CA and Tonya Roach of Lawrenceburg, KY, granddaughters, Leah Kabler and Brittany Roach, grandson Blake Roach, brother Roy Steinbrecher of Grand Marais, MN, nieces, Cathleen Mitchell and Weslie Steinbrecher, nephews, Mike Connors and Stephen Connors and many, many friends.
A Celebration of Life will follow the Graveside Service at Bauer Pottery, 27430 Main St., Highland, CA 92346 from 1-4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Marty's name to the American Cancer Society, Highland Senior Center or your local animal shelter.
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