OBITUARY

Michael Lee Martin

January 2, 1948 – May 8, 2013
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Michael Lee Martin, 65, died in his home on Wednesday, May 8, 2013. He fought a long and courageous battle with his illness and passed from the comfort of his home while at the side of his loving wife. Michael was born on January 2, 1948 in Danville, VA to Laura Turner Martin and Edward Lee Martin.

Michael is survived by his wife of 22 years, Mary Baldwin Martin; daughter, Heather Martin Simonson and husband, Jason of Aurora, OR; step-son Steven Rushin and wife, Ashley of Raleigh, NC; granddaughter, Riley Rushin; step-granddaughter, Kourtney Simonson and siblings, Danny Martin (Amanda), Phyllis Merchant, Sheila Brandes, John Martin (Jo); nieces, Jodie Brandes and Sena Forheringham; nephew, Jesse Martin; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by his pug, Suzy.

Mike was a gifted athlete. He especially loved baseball and softball. The records that he set in his hometown as a youth still stand unbroken. After his mother’s death, he joined the Navy and proudly served his country in Vietnam. After leaving the Navy, he settled in Oregon where he made many lifelong friends and started his family. In 1985, he returned to North Carolina so that he could be closer to his brothers, sisters and beloved Grandmother. He was employed for many years by Carneal Downey Construction Co. where he was a talented and respected heavy equipment operator.

Michael loved playing golf, classic country music, and was crazy over classic cars. He was often seen around town in his shiny black 1953 Ford truck.

He was strong, brave and compassionate. He was a good listener and was always there to help a friend in need. He will be missed. He is gone too soon.

The family will receive guests for visitation on Saturday, May, 11, 2013 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm from Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 St. Mary’s St, Raleigh, NC 27605.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of his love for animals, please make contributions to Michael’s favorite charity, the SPCA of Wake County, 200 Petfinder Lane, Raleigh, NC 27603.

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Services

  • Visitation Saturday, May 11, 2013
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REMEMBERING

Michael Lee Martin

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Lori Kagarise

May 28, 2013

Mary it was a pleasure to get to know you both ! You took amazing care of Mike and it was so obvious that you guys loved each other. He spoke so highly of you to us ! Mike, I'll miss seeing you buddy, but am so glad that you are no longer suffering.... You are a true American Hero !
Love you both,
Lori Kagarise

babz covington

May 15, 2013

Mary , I am so very sorry for this loss.I wish there was something i could say that would be of any help, really.You'll be in my prayers. Babz

kenny hamlett

May 15, 2013

mike, i will always miss you and think of you , and the good times we had growing up. you were a great first cousin. we all loved when uncle ed and you all came in and played music and sang. you will always be loved and remembered. we know you are in a better place and you will suffer no more. love alwavs kenny and shirley hamlett

Glenda Lewis

May 13, 2013

Mike you will always have a special place in my heart. Mary, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Mikes' memory will be carried on through his daughter Heather.

May 12, 2013

Mike,
Will always have such great memories of you and thinking of Danny, Phyllis, & Sheila. I am so sorry for your loss Mary. I remember long ago when we came to see you that Mike said he would not be here if it wasn't for you Mary. I know he loved you dearly. Mike was a special guy with a heart as big as all outdoors. Just like the rest of you!! I know that Grandma was waiting with open arms for you. My prayer is that all of you will grow closer to the Lord and we will all see each other one day.
Love you guys,
Billie Joyce Martin Freeman

Shirley Hamlett

May 11, 2013

Love you Mike and miss you. You meant a lot to me. You were very special to me. Brothers & Sisters take care of each othe and their chikdren. Love you and God Bless. Mary, will always be there for you. Call me if you need me. Love you, Aunt Shirley

Steve Hamlett

May 11, 2013

Mike, a great 1st cousin, the senior member of Uncle Ed's clan, a super guy who loved life and had a fun time living it. Tell Grandma we say Hello. Love you guys-Mary, Phyllis, Danny, Sheila and John. Your Cuz, Steve

The Simonson's

May 11, 2013

This is for u daddy!! We love u dearly and miss you so much already!

Liz Strawbridge

May 11, 2013

Mike you will be dearly missed

May 11, 2013

Mike was a good man with a big heart and I loved to hear him laugh.I know your loss is great, I am so very sorry. Kristie Hall DeVaney

IN THE CARE OF

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home
Raleigh, NC
919-828-4311