Charles "Charlie" Martin

Charles "Charlie" Joseph Martin, age 70, of Bellevue, passed away peacefully with family by his side on June 10, 2019. He was born in Detroit on November 16, 1948 to parents Joseph and Helen (Fons) Martin. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1966 and joined the U.S. Army shortly after. Charlie was a proud Vietnam War Veteran who honorably served two consecutive tours. After serving his country, Charlie settled down and dedicated his time towards starting a family. In his midlife, Charlie relocated to the Battle Creek area to pursue personal and professional goals. He was certified and worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator and Grounds Keeper for Fort Custer National Cemetery. Charlie was proud of the work he did and enjoyed the team he worked with. Charlie retired from Fort Custer in 2012 which freed up time for him to focus on his passions. He loved gardening, tending to his lawn, traveling, playing golf, dining out, and spending time with family & friends. Charlie was a lover of baseball and he played on several teams in his earlier years. Additionally, he was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and rarely missed the opportunity to cheer them on. Those who knew Charlie appreciated his kindness, humor and his "Big Heart". He will be dearly missed.  Charlie is survived by his loving partner, Donna Groat (and her family); his daughters, Melanie Martin (partner Mathew Karakas) and Elizabeth Gentsch (fiancé Darren McDunnough); granddaughter, Mariah Gentsch; and additional family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, Andrew Martin.  In accordance to his wishes, cremation has taken place.  Committal services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Thursday, June 20, 2019 at Fort Custer National Cemetery.  Immediately following the committal service, there will be a Celebration of Life gathering at the American Legion (Post 298) at 228 N 20th Street in Springfield , MI.   In honor of Charlie and in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to either Hospice Care of SW Michigan or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  Condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org