Michael Edmund Martin

So sorry to hear of Mike's passing, he and Barbara use to be our neighbors and would help you out with anything he could. They would always bring their party goers over to our place to watch our fireworks show on New Year's Eve.

Rest easy big Mike.

I was heartbroken to hear of Mike´s passing. Mike was a true friend-not just to me, but to so many. He was the ex-husband of my dear neighbor Barb, who´s like a sister to me, and I had the privilege of spending a lot of time with him during the eight years I lived next to Barb at Carolina Beach. Even after their divorce, Mike remained a loyal and lifelong friend to her, always showing up when help was needed.

Mike was one of the hardest workers I´ve ever known. He painted the porch, put up the fence, pressure-washed the whole property, and even converted the downstairs into a beautiful Airbnb space with his excellent carpentry skills. He had a gift for building and fixing, and he gave freely of his time and talent.

I run a small cleaning business, and during our busiest weekends, Mike and Barb would step in to help without hesitation-often making beds ahead of my crews so we could stay on schedule. That kind of support, kindness, and generosity is rare.

My husband and I even helped Mike move to New Mexico. I still have the picture from that day-Mike surrounded by trailers full of old auto parts, chasing his dream of fixing up classic cars and an old fire engine. He was a man of many talents and big dreams, taken from us far too soon.

Mike was also a proud patriot. He traveled to Washington, D.C. on January 6 with other Wilmington locals to support our then-President-believing he was witnessing a historic day in our country. He loved this country deeply and stood by his values with conviction.

Mike lived with purpose, lent a hand whenever it was needed, and left his mark in countless ways. He will be deeply missed, and always remembered with gratitude, love, and respect.

Rest in peace, Mike.

-Kristen Bray

Dearest Barabara, Danielle and Frankie, God bless you with comfort, love, and many opportunities to reminsice about Mike and the legacy of his that you each carry. I'm so sorry for your loss and the sudden nature of it all. You are stronger together. Sending love and prayers, Katie Gates