Gary L. Martin

Gary L. Martin, 79, of Osceola, entered eternal rest on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born on Oct. 29, 1946, in L.A. to the late Oscar and Shirley (Seuss) Martin and later married Diane (Fervida) Martin.

Diane survives along with their children, Lori Cunningham of South Bend, Sue Law of Elkhart, Rachelle Crowder of Osceola, and Andrew (Alyssa Juday) Martin of Nappanee. Seven grandchildren, Dylan (Schyler), Trevor (Julie), and Alex (Brianna) Cunningham, Madison (Max Hurley), and Katelynn Law, Leah Crowder, and McKinzee Martin, along with 7 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members also survive. Along with his parents, Gary was preceded in death by a son-in-law, George Cunningham, Jr., grandson, Koltyn Martin, and brothers, Dennis and Greg Martin.

Gary was a proud 1965 graduate of South Bend Central High School. He served as drum major and first chair trumpet for jazz, pep, and symphony bands, which began a lifelong pattern of leadership and service. He spent many years working as an electrician and found special joy in teaching and mentoring younger students for 30 years while serving alongside various general contractors. A 55-year member of the IBEW Local 153 Union, Gary truly valued the friendships he built there and looked forward to his weekly lunch gatherings with some of his closest friends. His faith was deeply important to him, and he served faithfully as treasurer for 16 years (1998-2014) with the North Central Region (formerly District) of the Missionary Church and UMLI Board from 1997 – 2024. Gary and his wife, Diane, were devoted members of St. Mark’s Missionary Church. Gary’s life was shaped by what mattered most to him, faith, family, and friendship.

A time to visit with family and friends is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 10 – 1pm at St. Mark’s Missionary Church, where a formal service to honor Gary will begin at 1pm. Cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to St. Mark Missionary Church’s Missions Fund. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Gary’s life, or extend a message of comfort to his family, please visit the Guestbook.