William Martin Obituary
Born in Jackson, he graduated from Jackson High School, attended Michigan State University, and served with the Third Army in Germany during World War II.
He began his early business career at Van Dervoort Hardware and Sporting Goods in Lansing and then as the first General Manager of Frandor Shopping Center. His interest in the real estate business developed into a long and fruitful career. He founded the William G. Martin Co., Realtors in 1962 which led to the formation of Martin Commercial Properties, Inc., predecessor company to what is now CB Richard Ellis/Martin.
An active contributor to the communities he called home, Mr. Martin was a member of the Lansing chapter of Lions Club International; Chairman of the Building Committee for the Sigma Chi fraternity house in East Lansing; member and chairman of the Board of Elders for Peoples Church of East Lansing; a director for the First National Bank of East Lansing; president, South Bay Association (FL).
In addition, Mr. Martin was an avid boater and fisherman, earning the designation of Seaman for the U.S. Power Squadron. Forever interested in protecting the lasting beauty of Glen Lake, he took water clarity readings for many years and helped establish the Glen Lake Preservation Fund, recently re-named the Glen Lake Endowment Fund.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nanette V. Martin; his children, Cynthia M. Colton (Jeffrey) of Ann Arbor and Glen Arbor, John E. Martin (Wendy) of Glen Arbor, Natalie M. Smith (Gregory) of Wheaton Ill., and Van W. Martin (Sharon) of East Lansing and Glen Arbor; his grandchildren, Sarah N. Colton, Jeffrey J. Colton II, Lizabeth D. Martin, M.D., Jacob W. Martin, Erin E. Smith, Caroline M. Smith, Chelsea A. Smith, Andrew G. Smith, Landon (Caroline) C. Martin and V. Cutler Martin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John W. Martin and Cleo VanCamp Martin of Bradenton, Fla.; and by his brother, Philip R. Martin of Dallas, Texas.
A memorial service will be held in East Lansing later this year.
Memorials can be directed to Glen Lake Endowment Fund, PO Box 551, Glen Arbor, MI 49636; or to Munson Hospice House, 210 Beaumont, Traverse City, MI 49684.
The family was served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Service; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Ann & Tom Millar
September 17, 2008
Dear Nan, Our sympathies to you and your family. You and Bill introduced us to Southbay and to Harbor House Dr. We so enjoyed the times we shared with both of you and we thank you for your many kindnesses to us. Bill was a very special man. We are truly saddened to learn of his death.
Ann & Tom
Kelly Mitchell
September 10, 2008
Nan--
I feel very blessed to have met and known Bill through the dental office. I always enjoyed when you both came in for your visits. I enjoyed Bill's humor and smile. I will miss seeing him in the office. You are in my thoughts and prayers. See you next time you are in the dental office. Take Care. Kelly @ Dr Kozelko's Office
Suzanne & Tom Marsh
September 9, 2008
Dear Nan, Tom & I are sadden by Bill’s passing. Heaven has gained another angel and the Earth lost a handsome, amusing and a very special man. Our hearts, thoughts & prayers are with you and your family. Tom & Suzanne Marsh
Ann and Bill Van Cott
September 8, 2008
Dear Sister Nan:
Bill and I send our sincere sympathies at this time. We always will remember Bill and good times we have had over the years you and he were active at the Venice Yacht Club. I hope we can continue to share our Theta heritage at Founders Day and will look forward to seeing you then.
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Jan & Roger Nauta
September 7, 2008
Nan and all family members, we extend our sincere sympathies to each of you at this time. We have fond memories of Bill because he was a very special gentleman. We were priveledged to have known Bill and Nan during the time they lived near us in Florida.
Duane Bone
September 7, 2008
Nan and family - We have very fond memories of Bill and your family during our time in East Lansing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we know that you are surrounded by friends and family that will help you face the tomorrows. Blessings, Duane and Georgia Bone
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