Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Mamary-Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services

59 Parrish St.

Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

James Martin Obituary

James T. Martin Sr. of Beech Street, Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday, Sept. 30, 2013, in Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

He was the son of the late Edward D. and Helen McCormick Martin, born May 21, 1937, in Plainsville (Plains Township). He attended Wilkes-Barre area schools.

He was an Army veteran of the Korean conflict.

James was a member of the Wilkes-Barre Fire Department for more than 27 years, where he was considered a hero for possibly averting a catastrophe when he responded to a bomb and hurled it into the air as it exploded. He also was employed as a former deputy sheriff and an active Pennsylvania state constable.

He practiced and taught martial arts for more than 50 years, achieving "Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame," "World Karate Union Hall of Fame," "World Christian and Pastoral Karate Hall of Fame," "Eastern Alliance Martial Arts and Legends Hall of Fame," "International Karate Hall of Fame," the "Crystal Diamond Award of Spirit" from Eastern USA International Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame, The "Crystal Diamond Award of Knowledge" from Eastern USA International Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame, "Hall of Fame" sponsored by International Martial Arts Magazine for "Grandmaster of the Year," and the "Plains Sports Hall of Fame." He was also the Mid-Atlantic "Black Belt of the Year" and Mid-Atlantic "Fighter of the Year." He was ranked No. 1 fighter by Karate Illustrated magazine. He was in "Ripley's Believe It or Not" for fighting his son in the same weight class. He's in Who's Who in American Martial Arts. He competed and won the USA Karate Federation Championships on the state, regional and national levels, which took him throughout the United States. He competed and won in Russia, where he was recognized as the outstanding competitor with the best technique.

He holds numerous congressional certificates and city resolutions for his martial arts. He earned the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the Killer Bees. He was voted "Athlete of the Century" by The Times Leader readers in 1999. He had earned his "Doctorate of Martial Arts in Philosophy" from England University. He was awarded the "Kelly Cup," the highest award given by the state of Pennsylvania, in honor of Olympian John B. Kelly Jr., and he was given the "Key to the City" by Mayor Thomas McGroarty. He was also deemed a hero by the American Red Cross when, while at a karate tournament in Ohio, he saved a choking man by performing the Heimlich maneuver for which he received "The Certificate of Merit," the highest award presented by the American Red Cross.

A man of passion, character and heart, James T. Martin Sr. left us on Sept. 30, 2013, to begin the next journey of his life.

On March 3, 1992, an article titled "A Rare Man Indeed" was written about James T. Martin Sr., and that is a perfect title for a man like him. There are so many adjectives that parallel this man, brave, heroic, courageous, unselfish, relentless, unstoppable, fearless, determined and caring. His life touched thousands of lives, and like his brother, Ed Martin, who passed on Aug. 8, together they created a community that is shaped and sustained not only by a few women, men and children, but a full cast of characters whose lives were changed and will always be better. Jim Martin defined a passion here on this Earth to always stand up for the person who couldn't stand up for themselves, and he empowered the weakest to have the confidence, both physically and mentally, to be the strongest. That was his goal, that was his mission, that was his legacy. The strength of Jim Martin can never be defined by how many hits he has had; it is defined by how many lives he has touched, which will never be able to be measured. Jim Martin was a man of value, respect and success. He lived his life defying every battle, captivating every challenge, but not only in the martial arts, in every single moment of his life. His eyes spoke volumes but his heart and compassion wrote novels.

He was born with an innate sense of calling, whatever that may be. Whether it was his family, his community, his martial arts school or the fire department, he was part of that age of can-do and always will-do people who felt that, if they didn't do it, then perhaps no one would. Jim Martin committed his life to taking care of people in every sense and definition of the word. 

He is survived by his wife, the former Patricia Paraventi; son, James T. and his wife, Donna Martin Jr., Forty Fort; grandchildren, James T. and his wife, Lynn Martin III, and Kaitlyn and her fiance, Michael Fitzgerald; sister, Ellen Martin, Plains Township; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward D. Martin, and sister-in-law, Florence Martin.

The funeral will be held at 9 a.m. Friday from Mamary-Durkin Funeral Service, 59 Parrish St., Wilkes-Barre.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. in St. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre.

Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call from noon to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday.

Published by Citizens Voice from Oct. 1 to Oct. 2, 2013.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for James Martin

Sponsored by Pat.

Not sure what to say?





Jack and Sharon Etter here sending condolences to pat and family. God bless you all

Sharon Etter

Friend

September 25, 2023

our hearts and prayers are with patty and family Jim is watching over you all we love you

Jack and Sharon Etter

Friend

September 27, 2021

It’s hard to believe it’s been that long since Jim passed away. At one point he even studied in my style with Joe brague in Goshin Justu.

Jim and I always respected each other and Jim actually was a pioneer in a lot of the state championships. Because of Jim one year I was given the Kelley cup which is the highest award the state of Pennsylvania gifts to an amateur athlete. Jim was the only other martial artist besides myself the one that award.

Thank you for the reminder and God rest his soul.

George Bierman

Friend

September 25, 2020

Took karate under Jim Martin back in 2004. Hard to believe he's gone. Best wishes to Pat and the family.

Brandon M

March 30, 2016

Dear Pat,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I don't have words that can truly express my feelings after hearing Jim died. I was honored to know him both as a martial artist and more importantly as a friend! We had lots of fun reminiscing about our martial arts days! He will truly be missed! Gary Michak & family

Gary Michak

October 13, 2013

PAT AND FAMILY
SO SORRY FOR YOUR GREAT LOSS. HE WAS A GREAT FRIEND. I WILL MISS HIS TALKS OF ENCOURAGEMENT...SAY HEY TO MY MOM AND DAD...AS THE SAYINGS GO HEAVEN ONLY TAKES THE BEST.
CHERYL SYPNIEWSKI-EMMMERT

October 11, 2013

goodbye old friend;rest in peace

vince cappellini

October 9, 2013

Pat, I can't believe Jim is gone. I wish I could have been here for you, but I'm here if you need me. Every time I saw him he would brag about you, he was so proud of you.

Jim, you dad made me smile every time I saw him. He always had something crazy to say. He will be missed but remembered well.

Jackie Shaver

October 4, 2013

Jim taught me self defense as I helped him with power lifting. We became friends at the WB YMCA along with his son Jim and brother Ed. I saw Jim last year for the first time in a while while in Wilkes-Barre and it seemed like we just picked up where we left off in the 80's. I'll miss not being able to see Jim again but rest assured that he'll still be doing martial arts under the watchful eye of our Lord.

Bob Miller

October 3, 2013

DEAREST PAT,
I AM EXTREMELY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR BEST FRIEND, HUSBAND, AND SOULMATE. JIM WAS ONE OF THE SWEETEST MEN THAT I HAVE EVER MET. THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE SENT YOUR WAY .

Jennifer Shaskas (Shultz)

October 3, 2013

A huge loss to the local martial arts community. Master Martin was a great man who will be missed by all who knew him. The Hapkido Tae Kwon Do Institute and the North American Hapkido Tae Kwon Do Federation sends our sympathy to his family and friends.

Master Pete Canavan

October 3, 2013

Jim will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. He was an great man. Patty, hang in there and know that everyone is praying for you at this most difficult time. He will be missed.

Trish Bobbouine (Dan Flood Elem)

October 3, 2013

Dear Pat;
our thoughts and prayers are with you at this rough time in your life we can only wish for a brighter future for you and your family God Bless

Jack Etter from the Heights Elementary and fience' Sharon

Jack Etter and sharon kuzmitsky

October 3, 2013

I've been with Jim-Mr. Martin for 21 1/2 years. The last month was a challenge but the last few days devastating. It has allow me to step outside myself. I feel like I am just getting to know him. He is now and always will be a hero to me. I am his biggest fan. Thank you all for your heart- felt wishes. You must also be incredible people if you knew him that well as you could not spend time with him and walk away without being a better person. It is all of you that will carry on his legacy. Thank you!

Pat Martin

October 3, 2013

RIP......Mr. Martin

Sham Flanley

October 2, 2013

Goodbye old friend. We trained together in the early 1970s when he first switched from Judo to Karate. He stuck with it took it to another level.

Joe Harkins

October 2, 2013

So sorry for your loss , He will be missed , he was a Great Man.

Jeff & Bettie Snyder

October 2, 2013

Pat and Family
So sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. What a wonderful man he was! He presented shows at our scout meetings over 40 years ago. I worked along side of him at the Fire Dept and Williams Bus at Heights Murray school. You and Jimmy will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Marty n Cathy Piotroski

October 2, 2013

To the family, so sorry for your loss. I used to chat with Jim at the "Y" all the time back in the 80's. He was such a nice, humble guy that will never be forgotten.

Manus Mulheirn

October 2, 2013

I was deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Martins passing. My heart felt condolences to you and your family.

Steve Stahl

October 2, 2013

Pat, Jimmy and family...our thoughts and prayers are with you all. If we ever become half the person he was - we have succeeded in life. He will be missed by so many. While I was a student of another Karate School, I still called him Sensei and he still called me "kid" - no matter where I ran into him, he always treated me like I was one of his students. It was always "How ya doin' kid? Keep being a good kid!" While the coming weeks and months will be very difficult - do what he would do - keep punching and keep kicking! Sensei Jim - keep watch over us all and thank you!

Sean McGrath

October 2, 2013

My deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one.Donna Martin and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest easy in eternal peace.

Gina Paler

October 2, 2013

He was a great man and will be sadly missed Sensei.My deepest sympathy to the family. You will be in our prayers.

Rick Wren

October 2, 2013

Prayers and thoughts to the Martin family. God Bless!

Kara Elias

October 2, 2013

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Gayle Ferris Nicholson

October 2, 2013

Wow, what heartbreaking news.I began my Martial Arts journey in 1973. Master Martin was part of my journey and always will be. Thank you for everything you have done for the Martial Arts community. All have benefited from your contributions and inspiration and there will be a void that will surely never be filled in the same way.

George Bierman

October 2, 2013

PAT MY PRAYERS FOR YOU DURING THIS SAD PERIOD OF YOUR LIFE. JIM WAS A GOOD FRIEND TO ME WHO I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER AND MISS WORKING WITH.

CONSTABLE TOM COLLIS

October 2, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

October 2, 2013

James, sorry to hear about your father. Used to speak with him in downtown Wilkes-barre.

George Shields

October 2, 2013

Shocked to hear the news; I always thought he'd go on forever. My deepest sympathy, and apologies that I can't come in for the viewing. Mr. Martin played such an important part in my life, and the lives of so many members of my family. Thank you so much for everything; you'll be truly missed.

Nick Marsellas

October 1, 2013

My heart felt sympathy on the passing Mr. Martin. He touched so many lives and left a legacy behind that will forever be remembered and built upon.

David Emerick

October 1, 2013

I am soo sad these past days due to his passing. I know now that those that touch our hearts and spirits leave us hurting the most. I have lost parents and others close but no one can put a value on a true connection. You were one not to be forgotten, missing you!

Andre Berard

October 1, 2013

Our sadness and sincere sympathy, in the loss of a fine man, to Pat, Jim, Donna and family. With love from the Sciandra, Devlin and Madrak families.

October 1, 2013

Mr. Martin taught me so much more than punches & kicks. For 15 years he mentored me and grew me into the man I needed to be. Words cannot express my thanks for all he did. I pray for comfort as we all deal with this loss.

Stephen Morrissey

October 1, 2013

Craig C. Moss

October 1, 2013

Craig C. Moss

October 1, 2013

mr. martin you were a great inspiration to many..you touched the lives of so many people..i was one of them.you taught people i should say all of your students self respect.thats why we are the adults we are now.until we meet again love ya buddy...take care of all my angels...

GINA BECKER

October 1, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Dwayne Brown

October 1, 2013

"Pop Martin"...you will be sadly missed by many. You have touched many hearts in many different ways.May you sleep with the angels.

Janet Koval & Family

October 1, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Martin was the father that my daughter never had and she respected him and loved him dearly. He was the role model for so many and will be greatly missed by all that knew him. He touched the lives of so many. Grief can be so hard, but you have so many special memories. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Ann Lee

October 1, 2013

This is the most incredible man I have ever known who taught me so much. He was like a father to me and will be deeply missed by so many lives that he touched!

With much sorrow,
Lee Ann Pulver

October 1, 2013

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in James Martin's name

Memorial Events
for James Martin

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Mamary-Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services

59 Parrish St., Wilkes Barre, PA 18702

How to support James's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Martin's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more