Martin John Bar

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martin (Miroslaw) John Bar, age 77, who was reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Linda, on January 22, 2025. Martin was born on February 19, 1947, to John and Helen Bar in a displaced persons camp in Germany. Martin, his older brother Anthony (Anton) and his parents came to the United States through Ellis Island as Polish WWII refugees.
Martin is survived by his loving daughter, Debbie (Rick) Franklin; cherished grandchildren, Kali (Alex) Higgins and Lauren (Owen) Steinwall; adored great-grandchildren, Aiden and Jaxon; and his brother, Richard (Peggy) Bar. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; parents, John and Helen (nee Wilczynska) and brothers, Anthony and James.
He was an incredible man and truly embodied the American dream. Martin's journey to America was marked by resilience and determination. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after he graduated high school and fought in the Vietnam War. He was very proud to have served his country.
Martin's life was a testament to dedication, service and grit. He lived the US Marine Corps motto, Semper Fi (Always Loyal), to the fullest. Martin worked for The Cleveland Illuminating Company for over 30 years, often in strenuous conditions as a welder. A devoted husband, he shared over 50 loving years with his wife. He always said that she gave him the best gift and that was his family. He loved his family more than anything. Most of the time he would tell you how much he loved his family before he would even tell you his name.
Martin was an artist at heart. He found joy in painting classes with his daughter and great-grandson (Aiden). His talents extended to woodworking, where he crafted cherished pieces for his granddaughters. Martin did so many things in his short life, but his favorite duties were being a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Above all, he was known and adored as Poppy.
A visitation to honor Martin will be held on Thursday, January 30, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Sunset Chapel, 6245 Columbia Rd., North Olmsted, Ohio 44070. A service will follow the next day, Friday, January 31, at 10:00 am. Martin's legacy of love, service, and creativity will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), or Marines Toys for Tots.
Semper Fi.