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Cornelius Martin Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Cornelius Martin
john fisher
September 22, 2006
My wife and I were fortunate enough to have met Mr. Martin in Lexington. He greeted us to his dealership and treated us like long time friends. We stood in awe of him and his accomplishments. This is a tragic loss.
June 27, 2006
Cornelius A. Martin is a prime example of the I am Third Rule: God First, Others second, Me third. He is now joined with his Creator and his family who has gone before him: Father, Mother, and several sisters and brothers. May his family, Gail, Amber, Chad, and Coleman find comfort in that his spirit lives in you and you will join him again as a family.
Mike and Debbie Fugate
June 16, 2006
My wife and I were at the funeral home selecting a grave maker for her mother's grave while visitation was going on for Mr. Martin. My wife and I were very touched by the number of caring people present for such a distingished gentleman of the community. Our thoughts and prayers are for the all the family and friends for a man who will be missed by many.
Jay Cross
June 15, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
C Arnold
June 13, 2006
He was a great example for all African American people in Bowling Green. I always admired his success and use it to remind myself I too can be great. May God bless him and I know he will be a leader in the after life too.
Katherine Kerr
June 12, 2006
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you. May God bless you and give you strength.
Chelsea Nuss
June 11, 2006
Although I never had the privilege to meet such an inspirational man, I am close friends with Amber. It is through Amber's friendship and personality that I am able to say Mr. Martin did a wonderful job as a father. I thank him for passing down integrity and concern for other people to my friend. Your family is in our hearts and prayers.
Joseph Shorter
June 11, 2006
This is a true hero who will be remembered by his deeds. Condolances to the family, friends, community and especially those who will not have the oppertunity to know him. May the Lord keep his wife and children in his arms and give them the courage and strenght to endure. Prayer is the answer.
Trey Sadler
June 10, 2006
I am very thankfull for what Mr. Martin stood for, and the memory he left behind. May god bless his family, and his memory be cherrished.
John Stewart
June 10, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Kenna Garrett
June 10, 2006
I to love the freedom of the motorcycle and was saddened by the news of this sinceless tragedy. As I grew up in Bowling Green, KY Cornelius Martin was a house hold name. My thoughts and preyers are with him and his family. I know Bowling Green, KY will never be the same again.
Franson James
June 10, 2006
I want to extend my sympathy to the family during this period of mourning.
To Mr. Martin, I want to thank you for using your genius and telents to make your dream a reality.
Ronald Watts
June 10, 2006
A quiet man that made a lot of noise. Long live your Legacy.
A former employee at Saturn of Ontario 2003-2005
Steven EWING
June 10, 2006
A FINE GENTLEMAN AND A FELLOW DEALER THAT I ADMIRED FROM THE DAY I MET HIM. AND I PRAY FOR ALL OF THE FAMILY. GOD BLESS YOU!
Barrett Lessenberry
June 10, 2006
Mr. Martin was truly an american dream. I cannot think of anyone more respected in our community. He will be missed forever by everyone who did or did not have the pleasure of knowing him.
Trellis Barksdale
June 10, 2006
Dear Gail and family:
Words alone cannot express the way I feel at this time. Please know that with time, we will understand it better by and by. I know that you have left it in Gods hands, and with prayer and faith he will see you through. May God bless you all.
Trellis
The Banks
June 9, 2006
My prayers go out to your entire family. I recently lost my grandfather (May 14, 2006) - so I understand a little bit of your grief. Recently I read a scripture in the Bible that says that God is near to those that are broken at heart and those who are crushed in spirit he saves" (Psalms 34:18). I hope you can find comfort in this time of grief.
CAROL PAGETT
June 9, 2006
CORNELIUS'A JOYFUL REUNION WITH YOUR DAUGHTERS.condolences to all left behind.
Amy Anderson
June 9, 2006
My deepest sympathies to the Martin family and to Mr. Martin's friends and co-workers. He was an impressive man with great intelligence, charm, and vision. I am proud to have worked with him through his H-D dealerships.
Chauntell Russell
June 9, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
JANE FREELS
June 9, 2006
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE ENTIRE MARTIN FAMILY
THIS IS ON A TOMBSTONE IN A CHURCH BY OUR OLD HOUSE IN ENGLAND
OUR DEAR LORD CAME TO EARTH ONE DAY TO PLAY AND GATHER FLOWERS HE STAYED AWHILE AND GATHERED ONE OF OURS. HE WILL BE MISSED. JANE FREELS MARTIN CHEVY NEW CARLISLE OH
Kevin Wigginton
June 9, 2006
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during your time of bereavement.
Have comfort in knowing that your loved one is in the caring hands of the Lord.
The Wigginton Family
J&A Marketing Group
June 9, 2006
J&A Marketing Group would like to offer this scripture for the family
"The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come."
Isaiah 57:1
Sherry Smith
June 9, 2006
My deepest sympathies go out to the family of Mr. Martin. I met him on several occasions when I worked at Martin Dodge Jeep, and he was always so nice to me. I just learned about what happened from my sister last night and I was completely taken aback. My prayers are with all of you.
JoAnn Sturgill
June 9, 2006
Cornelius Martin inspired me. This was a man who came from humble beginnings and rose to tremendous success, but never forgot his roots. I worked at Thoroughbred Chevrolet in Lexington, KY, for 5 years, and was afforded many opportunities through Mr. Martin's generosity that otherwise would not have been possible for me. He was a great man and I will forever be thankful to have known him.
Robert and Patricia Maxwell
June 9, 2006
We have recently learned of the loss of Mr. Martin. Our sympathy goes out to the entire Martin Family,friends,and employees may God walk with you in this time of need.
June 8, 2006
CORNELIUS ,ENJOY YOUR DAUGHTERS, WHAT A JOYFUL REUNION.MY CONDOLENCES TO ALL LEFT BEHIND.
LOUISA JAMISON
June 8, 2006
CORNELIUS ,ENJOY YOUR DAUGHTERS, WHAT A JOYFUL REUNION.MY CONDOLENCES TO ALL LEFT BEHIND.
Joshua Lundy
June 8, 2006
I never met you. But, your story gives me inspiration to TRY.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Your passing is not devastating it is immortalizing.
We who knew of you will all grow from your WILL to TRY!
To the family PLEASE feel blessed that not every one has the same father, husband & brother nor son. You did a FABULOUS JOB!!!!
I will never hear his voice nor will I get the opportunity to shake his hand. But I will all ways remember where I was when I 1st learned about him.
HOPE IS ETERNAL!!
THANK YOU
ALICE HITTEPOLE
June 8, 2006
I MISS YOUR DEEP VOICE AND KIND WORDS ALREADY.
MY SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE MARTIN
FAMILY.
ALICE HITTEPOLE
MARTIN CHEV, NEW CARLISLE OH
Kirk Lee
June 8, 2006
Our deepest and sincere thoughts are with you during this time of loss. May god grant you peace, comfort and serenity during your time of sorrow. Mrs. and Mrs. Kirk N. Lee
keia lee
June 8, 2006
sorry about the way things went
Myra Godby (Alvey-Smith)
June 8, 2006
My sympathy to Mr. Martins family. I was an anchor and reporter and WBKO when he first moved to B.G. I interviewed him many times and he was always the gentleman/professional. I had great respect for him and enjoyed watching his success in the auto industry. I recently attended an event in Gallatin, TN where he was also a guest and he actually remembered my name. He will be greatly missed even by those of us who barely knew him!
Veronica Nevels
June 8, 2006
Cornelius Martin was an example of professionalism and expertise at its best. The Dayton community is going to miss this strong and powerful leader. The African-American community has to mourn another of the greatest representations of our race who illustrated the American dream of entreprenuership at its best.We hope and pray that his family will continue his legacy and continue to make his businesses grow and at minimum maintain their strong presence in the Dayton community as well as the other communities that he was able to impact with his dealerships.We pray for the other gentleman who was lost in this tragedy and are prayerful that the gentleman who survived will recover quickly. God Bless!
Henry Essick II
June 8, 2006
To the family and friends of Mr. Cornelius A. Martin:
He was a geart guy whom I respected and liked.
Hopefully time and your faith will heal your wounds. Meanwhile just know that Mr. Martin left a legacy that time cannot erase.
Judge Hassan El-Amin
June 7, 2006
I just learned of Mr. Martin's tragic passing from my longtime friend and fellow motorcyclist, Ashland, Kentucky-based automotive dealer SIM FRYSON. Sim is devastated, as am I. After reading the numerous articles and tributes about Mr. Martin, I can see he was a great blessing to this world. May God bless him with a glorious place in the hereafter and may God bring peace, solace and comfort to the many stunned souls he leaves behind: his beloved family, his employees, customers and friends. Thank you, Lord, for this great example we witnessed.
Roger Johnson
June 7, 2006
My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the family of my old and dear friend. May God grant you peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.
Nayasha Farrior
June 7, 2006
I only met Mr. Martin a few times with the work I used to do at Western; however, I know what he meant to the Bowling Green Community.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May God comfort you in this hour of pain and suffering. God bless!
Charles Huecker
June 7, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great loss.Words cannot express the sorrow felt by all who knew Mr. Martin.May God be with you.
steve carter
June 7, 2006
My prayers are with the families of those involved in this tragic event.
Cornelius Martin was a pillar of the community whos life has not just touched those known by him but countless other lives that will be better because of his vision, character and generosity, not only now but as his legacy continues going forward.
"One isn't necessarily born with courage,but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous or honest."- Maya Angelou.
Mr. Martin was a virtuous man.
Maryellen Hennessey
June 7, 2006
My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the Martin Family. May the quiet man with the sweet smile rest in peace.
Dr. Lisa Burrell
June 7, 2006
My deepest sympathy goes to the family and employees of Cornelius. He was an inspiration to us all. His accomplishments and spirit will live on.
Sue Ann Null
June 7, 2006
As a former employee of Mr. Martin, I pray for his family and hope that they find comfort in the Lord. He was an awesome person.
Ida Bullock-Williams
June 7, 2006
Mr. Martin was truly a God sent man who had helped some of my church members in the spiritual way of getting a car. Thank you Lord for sending your angel to us and keeping him in your arms. Now you take care of him up there for you only pick the best. To the family, you most certainly have my blessing and prayer. I am a Missionary President of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio. God bless.
Tanya Price
June 7, 2006
My sincere condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Martin. . .To hear of such a loss of great "pioneer" is truly sad. . .Take and God Bless!
Mr & Mrs Samuel H Davis, Jr
June 6, 2006
We would like to express our condolences to the Martin Family. We will continue to pray that you may receive strength and guidance through this difficult time. (WU'69)
Drucilla Clark Benton
June 6, 2006
May GOD comfort your family during this difficult time. Find peace in knowing that others share very deeply in your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Altagracia Sanchez
June 6, 2006
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Martin Family in Bowling Green. Amber, Chad, Coleman, and Gail keep your heads up and continue to honor Mr.Martin's legacy. He is gone but will never be forgotten. Amber know that I'm here for you.
dave schiller
June 6, 2006
A true Gentleman!
My heart and deepest sympathy along with my prayers go out to all the family, friends and associates.
stacia barnes
June 6, 2006
The world, the business world and certainly the black community has lost a great friend and leader. Heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Martin family, many of whom we do know personally. REST IN PEACE CORNELIUS. Helen Sanford and Stacia Barnes Springfield, OH
JOAN WHITING
June 6, 2006
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE MARTIN FAMILY. GOD BLESS
Adriane Jackson
June 6, 2006
There are no words to express how sorry I am for the loss of such a TREMENDOUS person who has touched so many lives. He will be missed but, his legacy will live on.
Sam Cotterman
June 6, 2006
My condolances to Mr Martin and his family. I worked @ Martin Chevrolet. I remember Mr Martin as a fair, successful and honest businessman. I watched his business grow steadily. I wish his family the best and god bless in this time of mourning.
June 6, 2006
Mr. Martin was a generous and compassionate man- I will miss his intentional effort to make all his employees feel both respected and appreciated-and that is how I will remember him.
Lisa Becker
June 6, 2006
As Ghandi said, "There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart." My thoughts and prayers are with the Martin Family in this time of sorrow.
Sandy FLynn
June 6, 2006
I"m one of Mr.Martin's employees for Lincoln Mercury Of Dayton. Our prayer are with the Martin Family. Mr. Martin was a great person to work for , He will be missed. He will always be in our memorys.
Debbie
June 6, 2006
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." I am proud to remember Mr. Martin as a friend.
Larry Tyler
June 6, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Billy Elkins
June 6, 2006
My condolonences for this great man. He granted many opportunites for some of us. Those that took them have prospered.
Billy, Teresa, and Emily Elkins
C.J. WILEY
June 6, 2006
I WORKED FOR MR. MARTIN, AT HIS CHEVROLET, HUMMER, SAAB DEALERSHIP IN HURRICANE WEST VIRGINIA , MY PRAYERS GO TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND HIS OTHER EMPLOYEES, FOR THIS IS A GREAT LOSS WE HAVE SUFFERED.
Dyla HSBC
June 6, 2006
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Martin's family and friends. My thoughts are with all of his empoyees whom I know admired and respected this great man.
Oree and Mae Jackson
June 5, 2006
What a terrible loss for his family, friends and the community! Cornelius was a wonderful father, a down-to-earth man who cared about people, and a loving husband. We know that Chad, Amber and Cole will miss his love and care. Gail, we're praying for you during this difficult time. All our love.
Thomas and Valerie Zoretic
June 5, 2006
We are truly sorry for your loss. Mr. Martin was a fine man, a wonderful mentor to many and will be missed and remembered. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time. We will pray for you and hold you in our thoughts.
Amanda Franks
June 5, 2006
I worked for Mr. Martin at Martin Chevy Olds for a couple of years. He was a very polite man who was a joy to work for. My prayers are with the entire Martin family.
Chuck Gray
June 5, 2006
My impression of Mr Martin....a class guy who knew his business and his people. He will truly be missed by the whole auto world.
God bless.........
Michael Merry
June 5, 2006
May God comfort your family in this time of great loss. You will truely be missed.
MIke Stimmel
June 5, 2006
Mr. Martin was truly a Maverick in the auto industry. He will be greatly missed.
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to his family. God bless..
June 5, 2006
There are no words at a time like this that will make the pain ease.
I worked for Planet Ford for a short time and met Mr. Martin a few times. He had a zest for life. Riding his bike probably gave him freedom, just like the planes.
To his family.....always remember the good times and that smile he had on his face.
As a member of the motorcycle community ..... Ride with the wind....and God speed
D.C. Clement
June 5, 2006
To Gail and the rest of the family; may God Bless You and Comfort you during this time. Mr. Martin was both a friend and a mentor and my time spent with him will always be treasured.
CHRIS WATSON
June 5, 2006
SUCH A GREAT LOSS OF A GREAT MAN.OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE MARTIN FAMILY.
Rick Jackson
June 5, 2006
We were shocked to learn of your recent loss. Cornelius had a strong faith in life and was so well liked that it seems hard to believe he is no longer with us. His passing will be mourned by those of us who appreciated him so much.
"A man that taught us all a lot about life".
TONYA FINLAY
June 5, 2006
I HAVE WORKED FOR MR.MARTIN FOR 3 YEARS NOW AT PLANET FORD AND HIS PRESENCE WILL TRULY BE MISSED. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL OF THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS AT THIS HARD TIME IN YOUR LIVES.
The Watson Family
June 5, 2006
Our condolences go out to the Martin family, friends and employees. Although we were not personal friends of Mr Martin, this is a tragic loss for those who knew him and he will be missed. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
June 5, 2006
Mr. Martin was always a nice man and he always had a smile on his face when I greeted him at Planet Ford, My sympathoy goes out to his family whom I know will miss him dearly
Carie Gray
June 5, 2006
I worked for Saturn of Dayton in 1993-1994 and only met Mr. Martin once but he was a very kind man. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and my God ease your pain.
Tonya Bryant
June 5, 2006
I worked for Mr. Martin at both his north and south locations. I know he will be missed by all who came to know him during his time on this earth. My prayers are with his family and friends.
June 5, 2006
As an employee of Mr Martin, it was with deep regret that I learned of his passing. His family has my deepest condolences. I remind them to take comfort in the Lord.
carl haas
June 4, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Michael Brown
June 4, 2006
My sincere condolences to the Martin Family,and to his employees.
I served with Mr. Martin on the Ky. Automobile Dealers Association Board of Directors,and had the highest level of respect and admiration for him.
May God Bless his family in their time of loss.
Les Eder
June 4, 2006
A stand up man and a pleasure to do business with. He will be missed.
Barry K Carver
June 4, 2006
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
BRIAN KEITH MARTIN-BRIGGS SR.
June 4, 2006
YOU WERE AND ALWAYS WILL BE MY HERO
Logan Jergens
June 4, 2006
I just recently became a sales consultant for Mr. Martin at Saturn of Dayton North. Mr. Martin will truly be missed.
My prayers are with the entire Martin family.
Derwin Pogue
June 4, 2006
He was truly an inspiration to other minorities as myself to dream of ownership in the automotive business.My deepest condolense to his family.
Cheryl Shoultz
June 4, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Gregory Stonehill
June 4, 2006
Mr Martin was a great man that taught me alot in the car bussiness working at Planet Ford and Saturn of Dayton both.I will greatly miss him and his leadership.Good Bye Kind Friend.
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