Martin Arthur Lien

CORVALLIS, MONTANA – Martin A. Lien, 96, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 7, 2026.

Martin was born November 7, 1929, in Portland, Oregon, the only surviving child of Martin C. Lien and Minnie E. Bryson Lien. He grew up in the St. Johns neighborhood of North Portland and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1947. As a young man, Martin worked in an Alaskan salmon cannery and later served aboard a U.S. Army civilian tugboat in Alaskan waters and throughout the Aleutian Islands.

On October 22, 1949, Martin married his childhood friend and lifelong love, Betty L. Meyer. Together, they shared 65 years of marriage and raised three children, Karen, Norman, and Paul. Their home was filled with faith, family, hard work, and many treasured memories of camping, fishing and exploring the outdoors. Betty preceded Martin in death on December 7, 2014.

During the Korean War era, Martin enlisted in the United States Navy on March 20, 1952. He trained as a machinist's mate and served aboard the USS Marsh, traveling throughout the Pacific. He advanced to Machinist's Mate First Class before receiving his discharge on March 16, 1956.

After his military service, Martin pursued further education in drafting and engineering. He worked in mechanical design and patent drafting, contributing to the development of heavy industrial equipment. His skill, determination, and strong work ethic were evident throughout his professional life.

Martin accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior on February 2, 1968. Feeling called to Christian ministry; he attended Multnomah School of the Bible and graduated in 1975. That same year, Martin and his family moved from Oregon to Montana, where he began serving with Village Missions at Charlo Heights Community Church and in the Sula community.

For 31 years, Martin faithfully served the people of the Bitterroot Valley. His ministry extended well beyond the pulpit. He visited the sick, helped families with firewood and building projects, worked with children and young people, officiated weddings, led Bible studies and offered practical help wherever it was needed. He and Betty served side by side until their retirement in 2006. They then made their home near Corvallis and became involved with Corvallis Community Church.

Martin enjoyed fishing, camping, hiking, gardening, woodworking, and spending time in the mountains. Above all, he treasured his family and remained devoted to his Christian faith. His long life was marked by service, perseverance, generosity, and a sincere desire to help others.

Martin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his parents, Martin and Minnie Lien; and his infant sister, Olien. He is survived by his daughter, Karen Erickson; his sons, Norman Lien and Paul Lien; and his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members and many friends whose lives were touched by his ministry and friendship.

A Memorial Service is being planned, date and time TBA.

Martin's family takes comfort in the words of Matthew 25:23:

"Well done, good and faithful servant."