Marty Mata Elhart was born to Maria Mata Elhart and the late Walter Eugene Elhart on August 22nd, 1968 in Olongapo City, Philippines. He was the 2nd of 4 children, Edward Elhart, Lina Rom, and Louis Elhart. Growing up in a military family, he left his mark every place he traveled. Marty and his family grew up in many different places including Taiwan, Wisconsin, Washington DC and California, but his fondest memories were spent in Idaho. In 1982, Marty moved to Boise Idaho where he made childhood friends and memories for life. His teen years were spent working as he grew up understanding the importance of good work ethic, but he also made time for his friends and family. In 1986, Marty graduated from Meridian High School and in 1993 he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in History at Boise State University.

In 1994, Marty went back to Philippines to visit his mom's side of the family where he met Grace Panida Lutrania and their love story began. They had a long-distance relationship for over 5 years and finally in 1999, she said yes. Because of how Marty showed unconditional love for Grace, Grace realized that God truly loved her no matter what and to this day she knows how much God loves her because of the love he showed towards her every day of their life together. Marty and Grace Elhart had 2 children, Coralina Grace Lutrania Elhart, and Walter Fernando Lutrania Elhart. He instilled many values and lifelong lessons through his actions and wise words. Patience, hard work ethic, responsibility, respect his wife /others, saving money, love for family and a love for God before all else were some of the many values cherished and implemented towards his kids. Marty always made Grace and their kids laughed by being silly even in the midst of his trials. He worked at Ada County Juvenile Court Services for almost 20 years and made a big impact to the teens whom he taught as a Youth development specialist. Prior to that position, he was a Detention Officer Assistant supervisor and this year was moved to Probation Department as an Assistant Probation officer.

Marty followed the virtue from the Bible in his daily life: "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger" (James 1:19) He was the best listener, the kindest advice giver, and the rock of his family. Marty loved fishing, shooting, traveling, family movie nights, board games, card games with family and friends, loved karaoke nights, especially when it involved worship music. He was never ashamed of his love for Jesus, he showed Jesus' love through his kindness towards all.

Marty was called back home to see Jesus on November 7th , and although he will be missed, his memory remains in our hearts forever and we know that he is rejoicing in peace, pain free with his heavenly father and we can't wait for the day we get a big bear a hug from him again.

Bowman Funeral Home obituaries 2014.

Obituary provided by Susan #48491711