Thomas "Mike" Michael Martin

Born October 21, 1947, in Sterling, Illinois, Mike was the son of William “Bill” Alfred Martin and Constance “Connie” Leigh Martin (Miller). In 1971, he moved to Louisiana with the love of his life, Diane Lynn Martin (Olson), beginning a chapter that would define the rest of his years.

Mike proudly served in the United States Army, entering on February 2, 1968. He served 11 months and 27 days in Vietnam and was honorably discharged on February 1, 1971. Though he did not enjoy serving in Vietnam, he believed it was his duty to answer the call. That deep sense of responsibility shaped the man he was throughout his life. For his service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device.

Following his military service, Mike worked as a stockbroker during his daughter’s childhood before transitioning into the transportation industry, overseeing the hauling of molten sulfur and other industrial chemicals. He would often tell his daughter, “If you see my company trucks on the road, get out of their way,” a reflection of both the seriousness of his work and the protective pride he carried.

Mike loved sports — all sports except NBA basketball. He was an avid fan of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football and the LSU Tigers football, supported the New Orleans Saints, and grew up cheering for the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Cubs. Game days were serious business.

He loved television traditions just as fiercely. He likely saw every episode of The Golden Girls countless times. He faithfully watched Designing Women, Jeopardy!, and especially Days of Our Lives, which he, Diane, and their dear friend Mary Ann affectionately called their “guilty pleasure.” Many evenings were spent laughing and debating the latest storyline — especially how many times Stefano could possibly return from the dead.

Mike and Diane shared a love of travel and saw much of the world together. Among their favorite places were Paris, France, and Banff, Canada. Whether strolling romantic streets or taking in breathtaking mountain views, their greatest joy was simply being side by side.

The last two years without Diane were the hardest of Mike’s life. He missed her deeply and carried that heartbreak quietly. Their bond was steadfast and enduring, and there is comfort in knowing they are now reunited — together again after two years apart.

Mike is survived by his daughter, Amber Lynn Douglas, and his cherished granddaughter, Emma McKenzie Douglas.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Lynn Martin (Olson), and his parents, William “Bill” Alfred Martin and Constance “Connie” Leigh Martin (Miller).

He will be remembered for his sense of duty, his loyalty, his love of sports and spirited television debates, his adventurous travels with Diane, and above all, his enduring love for his family.

Welcome home, Dad. Mom has been waiting.