Al Martin

Born and raised in Mammoth, Arizona, as Al transitioned from grade school to junior high, he would ultimately reach the high school level where he attended and graduated from Coolidge High School in Coolidge, Arizona. But what set Al apart from the rest of his classmates was that his hard work and dedication to his studies would earn him the title & position as Salutatorian of his graduating class. An impressive climb to become 2nd overall, it was a proud moment for both he and his parents. Working his way through to higher education, it became essential that he shoot for the stars, scholastically, to achieve the heights of prominence,…which for Al was attained by earning his Master’s Degree at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.

At the age of 21, as the Korean War was just picking up steam, Al decided he would rather enlist in the armed forces than be drafted, so off to the recruiter’s office he went,…and soon, the U.S. Air Force had its newest Airman. Serving from June 1951 thru August 1955, Al wore his uniform with pride for America and extended his utmost in carrying out the duty assignments laid out for him as part of the 3320th Retraining Group. He would ultimately attain the rank of Airman First Class (A1C). Following his military obligation, Al found great resource in the G.I. Bill which he utilized to attend the North Texas State University where his initial higher education actually got underway. So it is, with thanks and praise from a grateful nation, that we honor Al’s service to our country and extend our posthumous gratitude for his willingness to stand in harm’s way for the sake of freedom, and in support of our allies overseas.

As for Al’s work resume, some might say it was an eclectic array of interesting and unique skills,…all of which, to some degree, were infused with his incredible devotion and passion for music. If you were to peruse Al’s military discharge paperwork, in the box that denotes his civilian line of work, you’ll find the words, “Orchestra Leader.” Mind you,…he was a mere 21 years of age. Yes, he loved music,…most notably, the sounds of the Big Band era. While serving in the Air Force, it didn’t take long for the right people to learn of Al’s musical talents, so soon he found himself being invited to join the Air Force Band at Amarillo, Texas in which he played his heart out on the trombone and bass. He and his bandmates were all proud members of the "Band of the West."

On one fate-filled day when Al was performing in a variety show, he met a girl backstage who was helping a baton-twirling friend ignite her batons when an entirely different fire was ignited,...the spark of passion when he realized he had just met the girl of his dreams. Following a period of courtship and romance, the two lovebirds made it official when they shared their vows of marriage on May 23, 1959 in Denton, Texas at the Immaculate Conception Church in the loving eyes of family and friends alike. Mr. & Mrs. Al and Okey Martin would go on to share 61 glorious years together growing deeper in love with each passing day.

As time marched on and change entered Al’s life, part of that change would find him relocating to Michigan where he became a resident of what is now, Sterling Heights. As his career path was also experiencing some growing pains, Al became involved in what was happening within his community and sought to serve on the township’s council. He was ultimately chosen to do so and served as a Councilman from 1968 thru 1974. Also, as a Charter Commission member, Al was integral in the transition of Sterling Heights from a township to a city. Within a short period of time, Al would become the city’s second mayor, a position he held in the highest esteem from 1972-1973. And being true to his character and passions, Al would affectionately become known as the city’s “Singing Mayor” and enjoyed organizing the Sterling Heights Charity Balls, an annual event that was quite special to Al. With his political aspirations behind him, Al eventually joined the ranks of the sales force where he vended a line of school supplies,…a career in which he was quite successful because he had a song in his heart wherever his path led.

Along with Orchestra Leader, band member, and Singing Mayor, Al’s musical prowess was also appreciated and enjoyed by his church family at the Sterling Heights United Methodist Church where he was a vital part of the church choir for many years. Not only could he play a mean instrument, but he had the voice of an angel and was elated to join his fellow choir mates each week as they ministered to the congregation from deep within. And just as he sang LIKE an angel,…it’s heartwarming to imagine that he is now singing WITH them up in Heaven.

Al cared immensely for his community and was an extremely civic-minded person, which is what lead him to serve as both Councilman and Mayor. He was a part of the many projects and milestones that ushered in the growth of Sterling Heights. But one of the most notable of these projects was when he spearheaded the Clinton River Clean-Up back in 1969,…which ultimately lead to the creation of the city’s Riverland Park, now known as North Clinton River Park in Sterling Heights. A monumental challenge that garnered incredible support and vision, the worker’s must have been like a bunch of the Disney Dwarfs,…whistling while they worked with their mentor leading the way.

A loving husband, father, grandfather and brother, Al leaves behind a wonderful legacy of love that is sure to be embraced with each reflection shared,...especially by his children. An involved and eager father, Al loved being a part of and mentoring them through their various organizations to include Little League, Scouting, and the Indian Guides. He touched countless hearts and souls in his journey this side of Heaven,…may he now enjoy the blessings on the other side as he rests safely in the arms of God. He will be missed beyond expression and loved beyond measure.

Al was the beloved husband of Okey; dear father of Cynthia Anne (Keith) Hatchell, Albert Allan Martin, and John Kelsey Martin; and loving grandfather of Allan Robert Martin. He was also the cherished brother of Victoria “Jessie” Reyes, Terry Chavez, and was preceded in death by his siblings Johnny, Gene, Conrad “Sonnie”, Grace Rocha, and Lucia Quintero.

In remembrance of his military service, Al will be laid to rest, with military honors, at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. His inurnment will take place in the Spring of 2021. Please check back for the date & time coming soon.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Al at his guest book below.