Marty M DeBow

Marty M DeBow obituary, Eaton Rapids, MI

Marty M DeBow

Marty DeBow Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Skinner Funeral Home - Eaton Rapids on Jun. 27, 2024.

Publish in a newspaper

Martin (Marty) Marc DeBow, age 66, passed away from this life into the arms of Jesus at home surrounded by his loving family in Eaton Rapids, MI, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born to Ann and John DeBow in Lansing MI, Marty dedicated his life to faith, family and community.
For 36 years, Marty served as a beloved pastor in five parishes, touching countless lives with his compassion and wisdom. His commitment to his congregation was unwavering, and he found great joy in his ministry. He had a heart for youth and spent many hours with kids running work camps and programs for young people. While serving his various churches Marty also loved being a part of his community and served in many capacities, including coaching his kids in t-ball, football and basketball. He also served on the Eaton Rapids Hospital Board as well as many community service organizations throughout the years.
Outside of his pastoral duties, Marty cherished and prioritized his precious family, spending time with Cindy, the kids and grandkids at his favorite retreat, the family cottage on "Happy Loon Lake." He loved taking the family fishing, tubing, making bonfires and cooking up "Papa's Pancakes." He also had a great love for the Au Sable River and enjoyed fishing for steelhead there with friends. Marty was an avid sports fan with a deep love for Michigan State as an alumni. Many a Saturday he could be found with family and friends cheering on the Spartans. Fishing, basketball, football, and deer hunting were activities that Marty participated in throughout his life.
Marty will be sorely missed for his warmth and kindness, his great sense of humor and his wonderful ability to make anyone feel like a friend.
Marty is survived by his loving wife, Cindy, his children Kattie (Ryan) and Matt (Katie), as well as his cherished grandchildren Mila, Grayson, Quinton, Cameron, and Rosie. He also leaves behind his mother, Ann DeBow, and sisters, Julie Doolittle, Debbie Kline, and Missy Howey. His legacy of love and kindness will live on through them.
A visitation will be held at Skinner's Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 10th from 5-8pm. The celebration of Marty's life will be held on Thursday, July 11th at 11am at First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, with a luncheon immediately to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any of the following organizations: The Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund (earmarked for the Eaton Rapids High School Hunting & Fishing Club), or the First United Methodist Church - Youth and Family Ministries Programming.
To send flowers to the family of Marty, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Marty DeBow's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 4, 2024

Larry Kavulich posted to the memorial.

July 12, 2024

Alesa Webb posted to the memorial.

June 30, 2024

Judy Krchmar posted to the memorial.

4 Entries

Larry Kavulich

August 4, 2024

Marty will be missed up at the lake. Condolences and prayers to the family.

Alesa Webb

July 12, 2024

Cindy, Matt, Kattie, and your families,

I am so sorry to learn of Pastor Marty´s passing. I very much enjoyed the years with Marty as our pastor at Asbury United Methodist Church. I enjoyed singing with him in choir and the many meetings and good times we spent together at church. God has definitely welcomed home an angel and I pray that He will continue to give you comfort until you all are together again in heaven. With deepest sympathy,
Alesa Webb

Judy Krchmar

June 30, 2024

Not only was he a wonderful Pastor, I considered him to be a dear friend. He was so very caring when I lost Dad and presented a beautiful service for his funeral. The world needs more people like Marty!

Deborah Valley Haviland

June 29, 2024

I went to school with Marty. He was always friendly, kind and funny to be around. He liked everyone. I have great memories of him at school. He will be missed by everyone who had the chance to have known him. Prayers and thoughts for his family. He is with God and the angels now. RiP.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Skinner Funeral Home - Eaton Rapids

315 South River Street, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827

Make a Donation
in Marty DeBow's name

How to support Marty's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Marty DeBow's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Marty DeBow's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 4, 2024

Larry Kavulich posted to the memorial.

July 12, 2024

Alesa Webb posted to the memorial.

June 30, 2024

Judy Krchmar posted to the memorial.