Michael David Martin

Kingsland - Michael David Martin, known affectionately as Mike to his friends and family, embarked on his final adventure on January 3, 2024. Born on October 23, 1946, in the small town of Gorman, Texas, Mike's journey through life was as colorful and spirited as the classic cars he adored. He passed away in Kingsland, Texas, after a valiant bout with COPD, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a touch of mischief.

Mike was a man who lived life in the fast lane, but always with his seatbelt on-safety first, but make it thrilling. A proud graduate of Permian High School's class of 1965, he carried the spirit of his youth throughout his life, never losing his zest for a good joke or a well-timed prank. His military service in the Army honed his discipline, but it was his 35 years as a steel salesman that showcased his charm and wit, making him a favorite among clients and colleagues alike.

When Mike retired, he became the proud owner of the Golden Cue in 2008 in Odessa, Texas, where he was known to rack up more than just pool balls. His love for the game was only matched by his love for bowling and fishing, where his perfectionist nature turned leisurely hobbies into quests for mastery. Mike's friends at the Lake Area Rods and Classic Car Club knew him as the guy with the gleaming blue and white 1956 Chevy Belaire, a car that was almost as smooth and polished as his sense of humor.

Mike's intelligence was as sharp as his wit, and his adventurous spirit meant he was always up for a challenge, whether it was perfecting his bowling technique or casting the perfect line. His family knew him as a funny man who could light up a room with his humor and warm any heart with his kindness.

He leaves behind a band of merry Martins and Smiths, including his beloved wife Sue, who was the Ethel to his Lucy in every comedic escapade. His daughters Michelle Murray, Melissa Martin, Staslie Martin, Jeni Smith and fiancé Scott Sonntag, and Erica Smith, along with his sons Billy Martin and wife Melissa, and Willis Smith and wife Nikki, inherited their dad's knack for finding joy in every moment. His grandchildren Jay Murray, Michael Murray, Tyler Smith, Luke Smith, and Kyzen Compton will miss their grandpa's larger-than-life stories and the twinkle in his eye that hinted at another joke just around the corner.

Mike's life was a testament to the power of laughter and the importance of family. He was the kind of man who could turn a trip to the grocery store into an adventure and a family dinner into a comedy show. His legacy is not just in the memories he leaves behind, but in the laughter that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

As we say goodbye to Mike, we imagine him cruising the heavens in his '56 Belaire, a celestial joyride fit for a man who lived with such gusto. He may have taken his final bow, but the curtain will never truly close on the impact he made on the world. Mike Martin was a man who knew how to make the most of every moment, and his story will be told with smiles and laughter for generations to come.

So, here's to Mike-a man who never let life's speed bumps slow him down. May the fishing be plentiful, the bowling lanes always open, and the pool tables perfectly leveled wherever you are, good sir. You've left us all with grins on our faces and joy in our hearts. And for that, we thank you. Keep the jokes coming, Mike; we'll be listening for them in the whisper of the wind and the rustle of the leaves. Until we meet again, keep them laughing.