Robert Lee Martin
VALPARAISO, IN -
Robert Lee Martin passed away peacefully on November 26, 2019. He was born on October 8, 1932 in Hillisburg, IN to the late Ralph and Edith Martin. Robert graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1950. He met the love of his life, Shirley Austin and they married on November 26, 1955. They celebrated 64 years of blissful marriage together. Robert was a man dedicated to his family and friends with his kind, caring and generous heart.
Robert served in the Navy during the Korean War as a 3rd Class Petty Officer. He worked for Bethlehem Steel as a Controller in the Sheet/Tin Department, where he retired in 1995 after 30 years. He moved to Monticello, IN for 10 years and happily returned to Valparaiso to be closer to his family where he resided until his death.
He touched the lives of many people as a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion and Saint Paul's Catholic Church Men's Club. Robert was a founding member and past president of Valparaiso American Pop Warner football in 1970. He was a lifelong member of the John Purdue Club and proudly wore Gold and Black.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; five children, Marty (Diane), Mathew (Brenda), Michael (Beth), Connie (Merle) Sparenberg, Jill (Jim) Perry; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Robert's viewing will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46385. Mass Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Paul's Catholic Church. Rev. Douglas Mayer officiating. Cremation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to VNA Hospice.
Arrangements by DYKES FUNERAL HOME, INC. (219)-462-3125.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Heidi Eagle (Bonnes)
December 5, 2019
Aunt Shirley and family, please know that we are sending all our love and prayers for strength and comfort from Ohio. Uncle Bob always knew how to put a smile on your face and never passed up the opportunity to do so. Many fond memories and moments we will cherish.
Ron Veatch
December 4, 2019
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. You have raised a wonderful family to be proud of. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
November 29, 2019
My condolences to the family . May you find comfort in your treasured memories and Gods promise to return our loved ones who passed away in death . 1st Thessalonians 4 : 13 & 14 .
November 29, 2019
My sincere condolences to Robert's family. May the God of peace and comfort be with the family during this most difficult time.
Kathy Washington Rosenfeld
November 28, 2019
Dearest Shirley and Family
I am glad that Bob is resting now. He had such a wonderful, full life. I just was able to look at my text that Kenn sent to me this afternoon. We are shocked and sad. I am so glad we got that visit a few years ago with us at Arnis. Thank you Shirley!! My memories of Saturday Purdue football and the Groto Dance Club, yalls visits and Love will be cherished forever. You have a wonderful, supportive family Shirley that gives me peace too. The picture you sent me of you and Bob I think in the yard maybe on your deck. But doesnt matter is STILL on the side of our refrigerator and has been so I can see it every day. my heart breaks for you and ALL of us that Love Bob. Thank you for your very sweet and Loving notes. We Love you,
Kathy Washington Rosenfeld and Harvey
ALL before Ronnie ❤
Kathy Washington Rosenfeld
November 28, 2019
ALL of us!! ❤
Kathy Washington Rosenfeld
November 28, 2019
Tedd, I am late! So sorry, Kenn and Ronn on 5th St.
Kathy Washington Rosenfeld
November 28, 2019
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
Funeral services provided by:
Dykes Funeral Home, Inc.2305 North Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more