Monte Lee Martson

Monte Lee Martson passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, August 29, 2026, surrounded by his family at his lake cabin on Hidden Bay.

Monte was born on March 31, 1952, in Salmon, Idaho, to James Christian “J.C.” and Patty Martson. He spent the majority of his life in Moscow, Idaho, where he attended Moscow schools and graduated from Moscow High School in 1971.

Monte’s early years were spent working alongside his father at Jim’s Auto Repair and Custom Towing on South Highway 95 in Moscow. Working with his dad, Monte developed a vast knowledge of auto mechanics, business, and entrepreneurship.

In 1976, Monte married his high school sweetheart, Margaret “Peggy” Alice Mercer. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Together, they created a loving family with the addition of their daughters, Marie in 1981 and Marlene in 1984.

Monte was a dedicated family man who took great pride in showing up for his children and grandchildren. He carried that same commitment into grandparenthood, remaining actively engaged and wholeheartedly devoted to Logan, Kaitlyn, and Kaden.

Pursuing his passion for business, Monte developed, owned, and operated South Side Mini Mart, Martson’s Carwash, and several commercial and residential rental properties. He took pride in working closely with his daughters and enjoyed daily coffee visits with close friends and family. After many decades in business, Monte officially retired in 2014 to spend more time with Peggy, his daughters, and his grandchildren.

Monte’s early married years were spent enjoying the great outdoors of Idaho, with Peggy and many close friends by his side. He loved snowmobiling, fishing, big-game hunting, bird hunting, motorcycling, and countless other adventures. His stories of the wilds of Idaho will live on for generations to come.

Monte loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed many rounds of golf, sharing his love of the game with those around him. He also looked forward to Saturday afternoon card games and meeting up with friends for happy hour.

Along with his ability to fix almost anything, Monte had a talent for craftsmanship and finish carpentry. One of his most prized projects was the completion of his floating lake house in the mid-1990s.

Monte was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, several beloved aunts and uncles, and his son-in-law.

Monte is survived by his loving wife, Peggy; daughter Marie (Sean); daughter Marlene (Trampus); and grandchildren Logan, Kaitlyn, and Kaden.

Please join us in celebrating Monte’s life on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the University Inn Best Western from 1:00–4:00 p.m.