Martin "Marty" Peppmeyer
April 3, 1957 - September 17, 2025
With heavy hearts yet deep appreciation for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Martin "Marty" Peppmeyer, 68, of Rock Island, Ill., who departed this world on September 17, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Ill.
Marty will forever be remembered for his vibrant spirit, love for family, and commitment to community. Born April 3, 1957, in Moline, Ill., he was the cherished son of Robert and Janet Landrith Peppmeyer. With a distinguished career as a facilities maintenance foreman at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, Marty exemplified dedication and excellence in his work, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends.
A beloved father and coach, Marty took great pride in nurturing the talents of his three daughters, Melissa, Kaitlyn, and Abbey, as he guided them through the joys of youth softball. His enthusiasm for sports extended to the Rock Island Little Rocks Program, Edison Junior High, and Rock Island High School, where he made a lasting impact as a football coach. Beyond his coaching endeavors, Marty found solace in nature, enjoying camping trips and bonfires with friends. A culinary enthusiast, he was known for his award-winning chili and his passion for BBQ. He delighted in the freedom of riding his motorcycle, creating memories on the open road. His absolute favorite role was being "Poppy" to his grandkids and attending and watching their sporting events.
Marty's legacy will be cherished by his fiancée, Julie Garien; his daughters, Melissa Peppmeyer, Kaitlyn (James) Stotts, and Abbey (Andy) Deain; and his grandchildren, Landin, Ava, Chasen, Emery, Greyson, Paxton, and Kamden. He is also survived by his siblings, Rob Peppmeyer and Tammie (Mike) Hardin. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents.
A funeral service to celebrate Marty's life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 3030 7th Avenue, Rock Island, Ill. Visitation will be open to all from 12 to 3 p.m. on the same day, ensuring that family and friends can gather to honor his memory and share in the camaraderie he cherished. Please wear your favorite Chicago Bears attire if able!
The family encourages memorials to be made in care of OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Ill.
Online condolences, memories, and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Marty's family at
wheelanpressly.com.
Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory
3030 7th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201
309-786-5421
Published by The Rock Island Dispatch Argus on Sep. 19, 2025.