1945-2025
Richard “Dick” E. Martin, 80, of Bellefontaine, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family.
Dick was born September 30, 1945, to the late Richard and Eloise (Ropp) Martin.
On June 5, 1965, he married Sharyl A. Martin, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Wendy Davis, Richard “RJ” (Jana) Martin, Jody (Lana) Martin and Kimberly Martin; grandchildren, Sara (Ryan Thompson) Miller, Brandon (Kayla) Hodge, Holli (Brandon Cooks) Kenner and Jalan (Ian Salyers) Martin; great grandchildren, Caden Hodge, Miles Wright, Hattie Hodge, Annistynn and Arrisynn Taylor, Ki’yn and Kaizyn Cooks; bonus great grandchildren, Monroe and Sloane Thompson, and Azaria Cooks; siblings, Shirley Beckford, John Martin, Karen (Greg) Humble and Sharon (Clark) McDaniel; numerous nieces and nephews.
Dick was a 1963 graduate of West Liberty Salem High School. He enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1962, and he initiated his vocation at Rockwell International, in Bellefontaine for thirteen years, Copeland, in Sidney for four years, and Honda for twenty-seven years, where he retired in 2007. After retirement, he spent many years providing transportation to the Amish community, where he made many lifelong friendships. It is well known to anyone who knew him, Dick held great pride in providing for his family. Outside of his career, some of his fondest memories were made by spending countless hours refereeing high school and college basketball games.
Dick will leave behind a legacy of being a loving, caring, generous man who will continue to warm the hearts of all who knew him. He will be fondly remembered for his contagious laugh, smile, and sweet nature. But most importantly, for his greatest accomplishment of always teaching, loving, supporting, and guiding his family throughout their lives.
The family will hold private services at their convenience, and all memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Shriners Children’s Ohio.
The family would like to recognize and extend gratitude to Universal Home Health for the care of Dick in his final days. With special gratitude to nurse Cindy for her exceptional care and kindness.
Online Condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com.
