Donald Paul Martin

Muncie...Donald Paul Martin, 81, resident of Muncie, died at home at his residence after a brief illness.He was born in Anderson, the son of Bill and Dorothy Martin and was one of five children. He graduated from Middletown High School in 1943 and joined the US Navy.He served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bogue from 1943 to 1946 and left the service as a Machinist 3rd Class.He married Martha Hayes in 1946, moved to Springport and together raised three children, Donna Jeanne, Jack and Joe. They moved to Mt. Summit in 1962 and he served as a volunteer fireman for many years. He owned and operated service stations in Mt Summit during that time, having both Cities Service and a Mobil station.He remarried in 1968 to Iva Jarvis. They were married for 36 years until her death in 2004. Don and Iva enjoyed camping at Spring valley Camp Grounds and the Woods Camp Grounds. He also enjoyed fishing with his good friends Dave and Ernie.Don worked for the Chrysler plant in the hammer shop from 1964 to 1987 and retired after 22 years and 7 months. He and Iva spent their winters in Okeechobee, Florida. They shared a wonderful garden and produce with friends and family. He was proud of his beautiful roses and gladiolas. He loved camping and fishing with friends, bluegrass and country music and NASCAR.After Iva's death, Don reunited with his high school sweetheart Dolores Keesling. He moved to her home in Muncie after living in Henry county most of his life.He was a member of the Mt. Summit Christian Church, a lifetime member of the Loyal Order of Moose, the VFW, and the American Legion.Survivors include his children: Donna Jeanne Martin (husband Corby Somerville, Jack (Darlene) Martin, and Joe (Deborah) Martin, sister: Charlotte Martin, his sweetheart: Dolores Keesling, and former wife: Martha Zier, 8 grandchildren, nieces and nephews, 8 great grandchildren.Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 am at Ballard and Sons Funeral Home, 118 South 5th, Middletown with Pastor Mark O'brien officiating.Burial will follow in Miller Cemetery in Middletown.Friends may call on Tuesday from 3-8 PM.Online Guestbook available at: www.ballardandsons.com