Lewis Martin Jr.

Lewis Martin, Jr., 95, of Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 12:18 a.m. Thursday, November 27, 2025 at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City.

Born on April 1, 1930, in Montserrat, Missouri, he was a son of the late Lewis Martin, Sr. and Pearl Mae (Gowin) Martin. Growing up in Montserrat, he graduated from Central Missouri High School in 1948.

Enlisting in the U.S. Army, he entered active service on July 12, 1949. He served with the 10th Infantry Division in Korea. He was honorably discharged on September 2, 1952.

On May 23, 1953, he married Ruth Hansen, beginning their 70-year journey together, raising two sons. They made their home in Janesville, WI, where Lewis worked for the General Motors Assembly Plant. He retired in 1988 with 35 years of service. Ruth died on June 22, 2023.

In 2023, Lewis moved to Columbia City to be closer to his son. Keeping active, he enjoyed playing golf and riding his bicycle. Coming from Wisconsin, Lewis was a big Green Bay Packers fan and liked following the Milwaukee Brewers.

Surviving are his son, Gary L. (Deberah) Martin of Columbia City; grandchildren, Tyler Martin, Aaron (Brittanae) Martin, Brent (Alex) Martin, Anna Martin, and Matt Martin; and great-grandchildren, Hadley, Maeva, Ryker, Hawkin, James, Joe, and Lexus.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a son, Steven Martin; brothers, Dayton, Charlie, and Marvin Martin; and sisters, Winona Angier and Juanita Armstrong.

Lewis will be cremated and returned to Janesville, WI, where he will be interred by his wife at the Oak Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Local arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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