David Martin was a great man, father, grandfather, friend, and Hero.  Husband of 60 years to Betty.  Father of 3. David Earl (Cheryl), Robert  and Linda (John). Grandfather of 3. Rebecca (Bill), Ronald Jr.(Melanie) and Paul David (Ilene). Great Grandfather of 5. Julia, Krista, Matthew, Alexis and Paul Jr.

WWII Veteran. Entered the Army on March 17, 1943 and his date of separation was October 29, 1945.  He fought under General Patton in the Liberation of Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe. He was a Radio Operator and 1st Class Gunner. They were known as "Pattons Ghost Troops".  3rd Cavalry Reconnaisance Group.  They were the first in and the last out.  Dad was very proud to be called a "Brave Rifle".  Dad thought and spoke often of his brothers in the 3rd. And would enjoy seeing them at their reunion whenever he could go.  The last one dad could attend was last Sept. 2004 here in Detroit, it was the 57th Reunion.  He wanted it to be a special one and had his family also come. Grandchildren and all.  What a wonderful Memory Dad.  He was so proud that before he passed he called all his family in his room and made them promise that they would attend the next Reunion in Sept. 2005 for him.

As promised the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment held the 58th Reunion in Sept. 2005.  As promised to dad his family was there.  He would have been very proud of Mom, Bob, Grandpa Charlie, His grandchildren, Becky, Ron, Paul, Ilene, Curt, Poranee, and John and I.  Tex the bagpiper was there to lead the colors as he promised dad last year.  He again played their song on the bagpipes "She wore a yellow ribbon".  He does great.  Dad would have enjoyed it this year again, He would have like meeting the General, Colonel, SSgt. and the other soldiers that were there.  Along with just visiting his Band of Brothers.  Hopefully dad next year we will all be able to attend again on your behalf. We are very proud of you.

In our younger years dad was very involved with his family. He coached in baseball, taught scuba diving, bowling, and just had fun with his kids, grandkids and great grandkids nieces, nephews and all his family members.  No matter how he felt.   He would always be able to give that wonderful smile. 

On April 18th, Monday the family was all together. We had a good time visiting with dad. He was able to watch the Tiger Baseball team who miraculously won 13-3 that night. His grandkids were there also.  He would dose on and off but would be able to talk to all.  He even had a dream when his pitbull (Becky) was in the room with him.  They went flying to a beautiful place.  Dad mentioned to her about the long line, but said how beautiful. He had a talk with each one of us.  Later at night I was sitting in dads room and holding his hand when he spoke one word "20". I waited thinking he would say more.  Approximately 45 minutes later, when he was due for his medicine at 3:00 am Paul his grandson went in to wake him, Paul was there when dad took his last breathe and went with the angels very peacefully.  Apparently he was 20th in line.

God sent his angel for you and you were ready to go home and we understood.  It sure wasn't easy but you deserve to be pain free and happy again. Thank you for all the wonderful memories and for being such a great father and friend.  You are always with us. Till we are together again our love is with you.