John William Martin
July 18, 2013
John William Martin, 86, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on July 18, 2013. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 21, 2013, at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines from 5 to 7 pm. The funeral service will be on Monday, July 22 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 600 6th Ave. in Des Moines. Burial will be at a later date at Glendale Cemetery.
John was born on October 5, 1926 to Pearl (Hutchings) and John Martin in Des Moines, IA. He graduated from Roosevelt High School where he wrestled, played baseball and was a cheerleader. After graduation he joined the US Navy. He later attended the University of Northern Iowa. John met the love of his life, Eleanor Hoy and they were married on September 10, 1950.
John was a salesman for various companies and after retirement worked at Terrace Hill golf course. He enjoyed animals, storytelling, cooking and golfing. His pride and joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He and Eleanor spent many winters in Texas. John was an active lifetime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; daughters, Debbie “Honey” (Kirk) Howsare, Tiara “Ty” (Larry) Fox, Shelley (Mike) Broderick, Janet (Mike) Jones; grandchildren, John, Jim (Medina), Rob (Rob), David and Dan Martin, Austin and Brooke Howsare, Collin Whitehead, Sami Fox, Nick, Maddie and Connor Broderick, Brandon, Logan and Taylor Jones; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Colleen McCreery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League, Mercy Hospice, or St. John’s Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Colleen Lange
07/22/2013
Eleanor and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers during this difficult time.
Stephanie Mattison
07/22/2013
Iam so sorry for your loss. I worked at the Waveland cafe for 16 years,john was my favorite customer, he and all the guys would meet every morning for coffee and toast.. I saw John everyday for 10 of those years, His wife is and was the love of his life.. This is such a great loss for everyone. Love u John...steph <3
Carole Sours
07/22/2013
I am so sorry. You are in my thoughts and prayers, Eleanor.
Joann Faber
07/22/2013
Debbie and family, So sorry to read of your fathers death. Sending prayers and sympathy.
Lorie Sparks-Cooper
07/21/2013
My condolences to Johns wife and family. I worked at the Waveland Café many years ago. One of the great things about that is that I would occasionally get to wait on John and his friends at the round table. He'd often ask how I was doing with getting my college degree and becoming a teacher. Later when I went back to get my masters degree, he was very kind to say how proud he was of me for doing so. John was always kind and fun to talk with. John was a great customer to me.
Pat from Dr. Angel's office
07/21/2013
My condolences to wife and family.
John was having a hard time the last time I saw him. May he be at rest now.My thoughts and prays are with you. Pat
Mac Greene & Ginny
07/20/2013
It is very hard to lose my best friend of many years going back to Junior High School days. We started Iowa Teachers together, and I was Best Man at their wedding. I am too hurt to say much more right now. Our condolences to Eleanor and to the family. With our very best love,
Mac & Ginny Greene