Robert M. 'Bob' Martin

Robert Milton "Bob" Martin, 87, of Temple departed from his earthly home January 1, 2013 for his journey to his Heavenly home, there to reside with his Lord and Savior who he served faithfully. Bob was born July 15, 1925 in Pendleton, Texas to Lester B "Tab" and Stella Martin. He attended grade school in Pendleton and graduated from Troy High School. He attended North Texas State College in Denton, Texas where he played in the school band and orchestra. Bob returned to Temple where he worked for a short time for Texas Power and Light Company. In 1945, he went to work for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad in the engineering department as a civil engineer. In 1985, he retired from Santa Fe after 40 years of service. In 1945, he married Posey Jones; of this union they had three daughters. In 1980, he married Catherine "Taffy" Dupree. Bob was a "people person". A good firm handshake for the men and a wonderful bear hug for the ladies. Bob never met a stranger, kind loving and genuinely interested in what you had to say. To meet as a stranger, you left as an old friend of his. Bob enjoyed time on the coast, fishing, crabbing and just talking with friends. In earlier times, he spent many evenings and weekends at the skating rink in downtown Temple, single or partner skating. Later, off the rink floor onto the dance floor. He was a wonderful dance partner, so smooth, whether Ballroom dancing or Country Western, he felt the beat of the music. Bob was very active in many community organizations and lodges. He was a member of the Temple Elks Lodge #138 for 29 years, Secretary/Treasurer for the Knights of Pytheas #50, past president NARVE #71, board member of Hill Country Community Action Association, past president of Santa Fe Credit Union System (49 chapters), past director Jaycees, summer camp youth counselor, Methodist Church Camp at Glen Lake, president for seven years at Glen Lake during a major improvement campaign. Was an active participant and assistant at the Boy Scout Camp at Camp Tahauya. Bob was very active in his commitment to his church, Oak Park United Methodist Church. He was a choir member for over 57 years, Sunday school teacher for 20 years, held many offices on the local, district and conference levels. Bob received the highest honor bestowed by the Methodist Church for service to the youth and to the Scouting program the "Flame and Cross Award". Bob participation in the workings of the Masonic Lodge, Knob Creek #401, was outstanding. He was made an endowed member for his tireless endeavors within the lodge for architecting and co-chair for the rebuilding of the lodge after a major fire. In 2004 Bob received the Golden Trowel award for distinguished and meritorious service. Bob was a member of the Commandary, was director for the DeMolays and member of the Karem Shriners. Bob was a 60+ member of the Knob Creek Lodge #401. Bob had a great love and commitment to the scouting program and all that it represents for our youth. Bob served on many local and district levels, District Advisory Committee, Scouting Co-coordinator, Heart of Texas BSA Council, District Chairman, Leadership and Training, Camping and Activities Committee, Troop Chairman, District Advancement Chairman, Scoutmaster Troop 102. In 1966 Bob was honored to receive "The Silver Beaver Award" for distinguished service to boyhood by the National Council, Boy Scouts of America. Bob served the Scouting program over 60 years. Bob loved all sports and was a huge fan of the Wildcats. He enjoyed attending and being a part in his grandchildren's sports, tennis, track, football, soccer, baseball, basketball, Saturday night car racing and college shooting team. If they were there so was Bob cheering them on. We will miss his cheers and support. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, his stepson, Charlie Dupree and a great-grandson, James Patrick Thatcher. Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Taffy Martin of Temple, daughter, Cindy Harris and husband Russell of Burnet, Penny Brock of Tucson, Arizona; sister Pauline Martin of Virginia, stepsons, Philip Dupree of Troy, Maury Dupree of Temple and Stephen Dupree and wife Pam of Belton, 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Celebration of Life services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, January 12, 2013 at Oak Park United Methodist Church, 5505 S 31st Street, Temple, Texas. A private burial will be held at a later date in Kyle, Texas. Bob requested that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Oak Park Methodist Church or Boy Scouts of America, Attn: Phil Everett c/o Oak Park UMC, 5505 South 31st Street, Temple, Texas 76502.