John R. "Mort" Martin II

John R. "Mort" Martin II, a loving husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine, Ohio, at the age of 71.

He was born on June 30, 1953, in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the son of the late John Robert "Jack" Martin Shirley Jean (McGowen) Hartlieb. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Christy Newman in 2022 and a nephew, Jamie Page in 2007.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Dawn R. (Carey) Martin; his daughter, Misty Centers; and his five stepdaughters; Breanne Roberts, Gail (Alan) Mostov, Megan (Beau) Jacobs, Meredith (Nick) Christman, and Molly (Ty) Klofta. John also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Samantha Krieger, Mallory Centers, Rhys Bervias, Rhett Newman, Regan Newman, and 15 step-grandchildren, by his brother, Jeff (Kim) Martin and sister, Jan (Jon) Stout, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

John graduated from Bellefontaine High School in 1971, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey filled with friendships, love, and laughter. He was not only an avid fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes but also showcased his talents in sports during his younger years; a notable baseball player, he enjoyed bowling in leagues at TP Lanes and golfing in the Amigo League alongside his brother, Jeff.

John dedicated many years of his life to working at Honda Transmission in material handling before retiring. In his retirement, he brought joy and knowledge to many as a tour guide at Ohio Caverns in West Liberty. His caring nature extended beyond his work, as he was also a family man who took pride in his loved ones and the memories they created together. He was a beloved member of his community, known for his vibrant personality and sense of humor.

In his personal life, John was not only known for his adeptness at picking out the perfect birthday greeting cards but also for his passion for singing karaoke and impressing everyone with his music trivia expertise. He had an innate ability to make others feel comfortable, always ready with a kind word or a hearty laugh. His warm spirit and ability to connect with people were part of what made him so special to those around him.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5 to 8 PM at Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 321 N Main Street, Bellefontaine, OH 43311. Pastor Jim Ellington will officiate a memorial service on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Indian Lake Community Church, 121 N Orchard Island Rd, Russells Point, OH 43348.

EICHHOLTZ DARING & SANFORD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER, BELLEFONTAINE, is honored to serve the Martin family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.edsfh.com 

TFD