James Roger Martin
July 11, 1952 — October 31, 2025
James Roger Martin, age 73, passed away after a battle with cancer on Friday, October 31, 2025 at EveryStep Kavanaugh House in Des Moines. He was born the son of James and Christine Martin on July 11, 1952 in Altavista, Virginia.
Roger proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and the Army Reserves. He was a longtime member of the VFW. He worked as a service advisor for Quality Ford and later at Stivers Ford in Waukee, where he eventually retired. Roger loved old cars, watching NASCAR, and spending time with his dogs. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children Brian Hardie, Jaime Martin and Trevor Martin, daughter-in-law Sara Martin, grandchildren Gus, Will, Cael, and Zach, sisters Carolyn (Paul) Cooper and Vicki (Stanley) Bowen, brother Danny (Pam) Martin, brother-in-law Leonard Keen, and a host of extended family members and friends.
Roger was preceded in death by his beloved wife Linda Martin, parents, James and Christine Martin, brothers Jerry Martin and Larry Martin, and his sister Wanda Keen.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to EveryStep Kavanagh House in memory of Roger.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Norm and Jackie Dare
11/04/2025
Trevor, Sara and the entire Martin Family,
I'm so sorry to hear that your father had passed. He suffered greatly and he went to fast. I'm sure he is excited to be with his wife Linda again but leaving you with only memories of them both.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families as you coop with your loss.
Sincerely,
Norm & Jackie Dare
Peggy Harris Johnson
11/02/2025
My thoughts and prayers are with all of Rogers family. Roger was special to me. He lived with my family for a while after his Grandparents died. He was more like a brother than a cousin. The last time I saw him at his Mother's funeral we both agreed to meet in Heaven if we didn't see each other again here on earth. Roger, watch for me, I'll see you again.
Wulf Mary
11/01/2025
We will definitely miss that smiling face. We were blessed to have you as a neighbor. Rest in peace.
Jean Erwin-Harris
11/01/2025
To Roger’s family, I am sorry for your loss!!!
Roger, you were such a fabulous and upstanding guy!! I will miss you driving by us honking and waving “Hello”!! You can rest easy now with Linda, and your little pups. I am proud to have had you as a neighbor, my friend, and my brother-in-arms. You can rest easy now with Linda and the little pups!!! We will all miss you deeply!!!
Jean Erwin-Harris
Jean Erwin-Harris
11/01/2025
To Roger’s family, I am so sorry for your loss!!!
Roger, you were such a fabulous and upstanding guy!! I will miss you driving by us honking and waving “Hello”!! You can rest easy now with Linda, and your little pups. I am proud to have had you as a neighbor and friend. My pups and I will miss you deeply!!!
Jean Erwin-Harris
Kris depner
11/01/2025
Hey BUDDY. You were a great FTO on the Chariton police department. I am grateful for your guidance and training. We had some EXCITING times which I will NEVER FORGET. Gods speed my brother. See you in the near future.
Heather Hutchcroft
11/01/2025
Martin family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope Roger is happy seeing Linda right now. My thoughts are with you.