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Delbert Martin Obituary
Delbert LaRue Martin was killed in action flying over Yap Island in Micronesia March 21, 1945, at the age of 23.
He was born February 13, 1922, in Shelby County, Indiana. His remains were recovered after 70 years and he will be buried next to his parents in Fairland Cemetery.
He is survived by his nieces Kathryn Brown, Natalie Shepard and Barbara Martin and his nephew Scott Martin.
After his death his parents J. Franklin and Anna Marie Martin, his sister, Scytha Mae Brown and his brother Robert Martin died.
Delbert grew up on his family's farm in Shelby County, Indiana. He enlisted in 1942 and trained to be a pilot. Delbert's nickname during his time as a Hellcat Ace pilot in World War II was "Snuffy." He was described by his first cousin Maurice Eugene Boring as "a little guy, but a ball of fire." He was part of his squadron's aerial victory during the first strike at Tokyo.
There will be a private ceremony at his gravesite at Fairland Cemetery, October 15, 2025, at 11 am. Friends and family are welcome.
Local arrangements are entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.
Online condolences may be shared with Delbert's family at www.freemanfamily funeralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Delbert Martin
Sponsored by Freeman Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel - Shelbyvill.
2 Entries
judy brown
October 27, 2025
I did not know the family or this gentleman but thank the lord that he was found and now he can rest with his family and now there will be no more guessing where he is. Peace to the remaing family members. Judy
Patrick Ranfranz
October 1, 2025
For more than 20 years I worked on Delbert´s case through my Missing Air Crew Project, and I am overjoyed that he has finally been identified. After all these years in an unknown grave, it brings great comfort to know he is coming home to Indiana. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with your family as you honor him and his incredible sacrifice.
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Freeman Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel - Shelbyvill819 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, IN 46176
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