Martin Kellogg passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026 (sitting in his favorite armchair), leaving behind a legacy of intellect, creativity, curiosity, and an adventurous spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Martin was born on February 20, 1939, to Emily P. (“Pat”) and Jerome Merle Blake (“Jerry”) Kellogg. According to his mother, from a very early age Martin showed an extraordinary fascination with classical music, obsessively listening to and recognizing musical pieces long before most children his age. Martin also remembered V-E Day on May 8, 1945, and later recalled watching the celebrations from his Manhattan apartment window as the world marked the end of the war in Europe.
In 1946, Martin moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico, with his parents and his sister, Patricia (“Patsy”), where he would spend much of his life and become deeply connected to the community.
A gifted student from an early age, Martin graduated from Los Alamos High School as one of the top three students in his class. He received a National Merit Scholarship and attended the California Institute of Technology before later graduating summa cum laude from the University of New Mexico. He went on to earn a Master of Arts degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Martin worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where his brilliant and inquisitive mind found a natural home. He approached both work and life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and creativity, always eager to learn, explore, and understand the world around him.
He was never afraid to try something new—even skydiving—and brought that same adventurous spirit to the many passions that enriched his life. Among Martin’s greatest joys was Scottish Country Dancing. He was not only an enthusiastic participant, but also contributed his own creativity and insight by devising dances of his own. Those who danced with him knew both his lively spirit and his appreciation for tradition, rhythm, and fellowship.
Martin also possessed a deep love for classical music, especially the works of Mozart and Beethoven. Music was both a source of enjoyment and a creative outlet for him, and he found great fulfillment not only in listening but also in composing his own works. Through music, Martin expressed the thoughtful, imaginative, and deeply reflective nature that characterized so much of his life.
He especially loved dark nights spent looking at the stars through his telescope, reflecting both his scientific curiosity and his enduring sense of wonder. Martin also had a remarkable ability to fix almost anything, from telescopes to cars to small household appliances, and was always willing to lend his knowledge and skill to others.
On September 16, 1995, Martin married Alice (“Bonnie”), choosing the date because of a meaningful astronomical event—one more reflection of the joy and wonder he found in the universe around him.
Whether engaged in conversation, pursuing intellectual interests, or sharing his many hobbies with others, Martin brought originality, warmth, and humor to everything he did. His life reflected both intellect and playfulness, leaving a lasting impression on friends, family, and community members alike.
Martin was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Pat Kellogg, and by his daughter, Heather. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his sister, Patsy; his son, Geoffrey; and his grandsons, Ethan and Scott.
An interment service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Guaje Pines Cemetery (901 Range Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544), with Rev. Tina DeYoe officiating.
Following the interment, friends and loved ones are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Martin’s life from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Los Alamos Assisted Living (1010 Sombrillo Court, Los Alamos, NM 87544).
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos (1738 North Sage Street, Los Alamos, NM 87544) or the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee in Martin’s memory.
His memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.