John William Martin

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.

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