Lee Gena Martella

Lee Gena Martella passed away on July 7, 2024 while surrounded by family at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Sacramento, CA. 

 Gena was born on July 1, 1951 in Turlock, CA and was raised on her parents' peach ranch in Hughson, CA. Gena and former husband, Jeff Warner, raised three sons in Modesto, CA. Gena was an enthusiastic and generous mother who devoted her time to her children and to the community, such as by volunteering in classrooms, serving as treasurer of the Modesto Thunderbolts Track Team, and soccer coach at Central Catholic High School. 

 While her children attended college, Gena also started a college program and obtained a Psychology B.A. from CSU Stanislaus. Gena then dedicated 25 years to helping those in need while employed at Turning Point and then at the State of California Disabilities Office in Sacramento. 

 Gena retired in 2020 and refocused her time on home improvement projects with her partner Nancy in Carmichael, as well as goofing around with her children’s families. Gena loved to watch football and baseball and was frequently seen wearing her favorite 49ers sweater or Giants ball cap. Gena also loved listening to the movie “Cocktail” soundtrack, camping in the Sierras, boating in the delta or on one of our many reservoirs, and tasting wine (especially Martella wine). 

 Gena was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Jessie Martella, and brother Robert Martella (Carol). She is survived by her partner of 25 years Nancy Kidd (of Carmichael), her three sons Joseph Warner (Julie Potter) and Adam Warner (Courtnie Beers) of Oceanside, and Ryan Warner (Robin Kokilananda) of Sacramento. Gena is also remembered by six loving grandchildren: Ella, Callahan, Fitzgerald, Lennon, Scarlett and Jessie. In addition, there are 3 surviving siblings: Richard Martella (and Dawn) of Fiddletown, Michael Martella (and Beverly) of Woodside, and Lynn Martella of Los Angeles, and numerous nieces and nephews. Gena will be greatly missed by all.

 A Celebration of Life is planned for September 22 in Sacramento.

 Gena loved the forest. In lieu of sending flowers consider planting a tree in Gena’s memory.