Charles Martin

Charles M. Martin, 87 died March 23, 2012, in the home of his eldest son in Coconut Grove, Florida. Bill Martin, wife Kathy, and his faithful dog Clancy were at his side. Chuck lived in Sun City, AZ and spent summers in Minocqua, WI. Born in Iowa in 1925, his family moved to Evanston, IL and then to Elgin, IL where Chuck attended Elgin High School. He was in the Navy in WWII and was stationed in Florida. He followed in his father's footsteps and became a pharmacist graduating from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He worked as a pharmacist and manager for the Jewel/Osco Company in the Chicago and Dundee area. Chuck was married to Mary Donahue Martin for 55 years. They raised 5 children, and lived in Elgin, Ill. His wife, Mary Therese Martin passed in April 2007. He had a love for adventure and was known for saying, "Why Not"?! Chuck loved to fly! He owned many different airplanes and shared his love of flying with his family and friends and was always excited to take children up in the air to see the world from above. He also loved to ski and took many ski trips by flying his plane into places like Aspen, Winter Park and Sun Valley. Chuck was an avid motorcycle rider. He was a member of the "Flying Wheels” and "The Power Riders" in Sun City, AZ. He had many adventures riding and camping with his daughter Peggy and enjoyed many rides with his children in northern Wisconsin. The Martin summer home was in Minocqua, Wisconsin. Chuck and his family spent many wonderful days on Lake Tomahawk, boating, fishing, riding motorcycles and flying around the Lakeland area. Chuck was always full of mischief and was known among his friends as a fun loving instigator. He belonged to the Vern Hooke "School of Huggers" and graduated many Sun City friends into the school of huggers with a graduation party! When Chuck threw a party you never knew what kind of fun was in store...balloon popping, drum playing or karaoke. He is survived by his children, Bill of Coconut Grove, FL, Sally of Park City, UT, Nancy of Lakewood, CO, Jim of Grays Lake, IL and Peggy of Lakewood, CO. Also his granddaughter Casey Martin of Park City, UT, Grandson Garrett Martin of Grays Lake, IL, and his pal and great companion "Clancy". Chuck was fondly known as "Mr. Mellow" easy going, easy laughter, and always kind. He was very generous and loved to send flowers. So as a tribute to Chuck Martin, buy a friend some flowers, do a good deed, hug everyone and be kind to those you love. Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 31, 2012 at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church, 15800 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, AZ.