Martin Peter Bilan died peacefully surrounded by his six daughters in the early morning hours of September 5, 2015. Martin was the first-born son to Croatian immigrants, Mare and Pasko Bilan in San Francisco, CA on October 24, 1925.

Martin attended San Jose Technical High School as a mechanic, class of 1944, he was drafted into the Navy that same year. Martin served during World War II with the U.S. Naval Armed Guard aboard liberty ships, providing armed protection for the overseas convoys. He was proudly and honorably discharged in 1946. Following his service, Martin worked many years for Gladding Brothers in San Jose. He later got into construction joining the Laborers Union and working for Lanoie Plumbing for 25 plus years, retiring from there. He was a long time member of the American Dalmatian Lodge and a proud 65 year member of the American Legion Lodge. Martin worked the family ranch at 1930 Almaden Road before he met the love of his life, Alice Skinner. Alice and Martin were married for 55 years and now he joins her in eternity.

Martin is survived by his six daughters, Lora Jevoich (Ivo), Susie Kirch (Fred), Marie Thomas (Steve), Tina Skow (Dave Gardner), Marcelle Castro (Jeff), and Brenda Coates (Dave). Martin was devoted grandfather to Katy, Adria, Marina, Martin, Clinton, Michelle, Joel, Justin, Jade, Nathan, Nolan, David, and great-grandchildren, Colton, Sophia, John, Savannah, Steven, Evan, Nikolina, Cody, Lily Alice, Dean, and Paisley.
Martin leaves behind his beloved sister, Lucille Deretich, sister-in-law, Nancy Melton, brother-in-laws Charlie Skinner and Martin Gizdich. He was preceded in death by his sister Ann Gizdich and brother-in-law Vido Deretich. He also leaves just-like sons, Allan Hurchalla, Craig Skow, just-like daughter, Marsha Renelle and caring neighbor Byron Reynolds.

In his early years Martin leased fruit orchards in San Jose and farmed them, as well as his apricot orchard on Hellyer Avenue. In 1973 moving to Gilroy, Martin raised hogs and sheep supplying many of the local 4-H and FFA clubs with prize-winning animals. Martin was a master in the garden, his tomatoes, peppers and fava beans sustained the entire family. His pumpkins were, on average, 180 pounds.

Martin enjoyed family gatherings that included his big loving family, and life-long friends. As such, all are welcomed to attend visitation on Thursday, September 10, 2015 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Vigil Service at 7:00 pm at the Habing Family Funeral Home; 129 Fourth St, Gilroy. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, September 11, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 11 First St, Gilroy, CA followed by burial at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park, Gilroy.

Donations to Kernes Pool,15 Portola Ave, Monterey,CA 93940 or to Hospice of the Valley,4850 Union Ave, San Jose, Ca 95124 would be appreciated.