It is with great sadness that I must report the death of Martin Bacal, a long-time friend and the heart and soul of the Pima County Democratic Party. There is not a Democratic activist in Arizona who does not know Martin Bacal over decades of dedicated service to the Democratic Party. Martin is irreplaceable, and I will miss him. Goodbye my friend.
Here is the announcement from the Pima County Democratic Party:
Remembering Martin H. Bacal
MARTIN HARRY BACAL
October 8, 1932 – February 14, 2017
Martin Bacal, a lifelong Tucson resident, died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home. He is survived by his wife Eva, their children Richard (Victoria), David (Diana), Katherine (David), Susan, and Emily, his sister Andrea (Doug), and 6 grandchildren. Martin was born in New York City and has lived in Tucson since 1934. He was a proud graduate of Tucson High and Columbia University. He was the longtime president and owner of Pioneer Paint and Varnish Co. He was active in the Democratic Party and was National Committee person for 12 years. He supported University of Arizona athletics, a season ticket holder for basketball and for football for well over 60 years. He was a past member of Rotary. Martin had an encyclopedic memory of politics, geography, and history, with a special interest in the Civil War. Martin was a loyal friend of Bill W.
Funeral Service 1:30 p.m. Friday February 17, 2017
Congregation Or Chadash, 3939 N. Alvernon Way.
Burial to follow Evergreen Cemetery.
Statement from the Pima County Democratic Party
It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Martin Bacal, our colleague and friend here at the Pima County Democratic Party. Martin served our Party diligently and loyally over decades, ranging from National Committee Chair to local TV host, and was well-known throughout the Tucson area, particularly during the time he ran a local paint store. As Corresponding Secretary of PCDP, Martin juggled numerous responsibilities, each in his own style. He was a stickler for rules, procedures, and following the law to the letter, to the great betterment of our County Party. To say that our Democratic headquarters will not be the same without Martin is an enormous understatement. As we move forward without him, we realize that he set a high bar for honesty, accountability, and the conscience of a true Democrat.
We are collecting stories and memories of Martin from community members. We invite you to share your favorite memories here.
We will greatly miss Martin.
Dr. Jo Holt, Chair
Pima County Democratic Party