Martin Fullmer

Martin “Mort” Fullmer, age 93, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025, at his home in South Bend. Martin was born April 13, 1931, in North Liberty, Indiana to the late Howard and Rachel (Tiedge) Fullmer. He was a graduate of North Liberty High School and was later inducted into the US Army where he served stateside in the Motor Pool from 1952-1954. After his honorable discharge, Martin married Mary Ellen Clearwater on May 26, 1956. She preceded him in death on August 31, 2005.

He is survived by his sons Marty (Gale Paldino) Fullmer of Osceola, and Mark Fullmer of South Bend. Surviving as well is his sister, Louise Umbaugh of Osceola, 15 grandchildren, several great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his sons Kevin Allen Fullmer and Gregory George Fullmer and his siblings Arthur Fullmer, Dr. Harold Fullmer, Frances “Fran” Buck, John Fullmer, William Fullmer, Carl Fullmer and Edith Schmitt, along with his grandson, Jeremy Fullmer.

For 44 years, Martin owned and operated Fullmer Service Center, where he put in what he liked to call “half days”—6 AM to 6 PM. He never needed to advertise; his honesty and skills spoke for themselves. Throughout the years, his sons worked alongside him, learning the values of hard work, fairness, and always finding a way to lend a hand. If someone was in a tough spot, Martin made sure they got back on the road.

When he wasn’t turning wrenches, he was headed North, "roughing it" in Canada with his brother John, canoeing back and forth across the lake to where John lived. At home in South Bend, he grew his own “Gotta Have It!” sweet corn and the juiciest cantaloupes around. People lined up at his roadside stand for his homegrown fruits, produce, and fresh eggs.

Later in life, Martin found joy in hunting for hidden treasures at garage sales with his brother Carl. He was a man of his word, a mechanic you could trust, and a friend to many. He leaves behind a legacy built on integrity, dedication, and a whole lot of elbow grease.

Visitation will be held from 12-2 pm Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola, with military honors and a time of sharing to begin at 2pm. He will be laid to rest beside his loving wife Mary at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery at a later date.

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