He was born on Dec. 26, 1944 in Luxemburg to Peter Martin and the late Anna (VandenBush) Martin.
Joe was employed at the former Fort Howard Paper Mill for over 30 years, retiring one year ago, and was a member of their Quarter Century Club. He was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters St. Mary's Court 1065, and the Holy Name Society and St. Joseph Society of St. Mary's Church, Luxemburg. He served in the United States Army Reserve. Joe was welcomed into the Koinonia Community last year at St. Mary's Church, Luxemburg, while making his retreat. He enjoyed spending his spare time visiting the elderly in their homes and in area nursing homes. Joe held a special gift of being able to talk to anyone. He will be greatly missed.
Survivors include his father, Peter Martin, Luxemburg; his brothers and sisters, Vernon (Diane) Martin, Luxemburg; John (Charmaine) Martin, Casco; Donna Berger, Marilyn (Jim) Rank, and Terri (Walter) Nemetz, all of Luxemburg; several godchildren and many nieces and nephews who were very special to him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Anna Martin; and one brother-in-law, Don Berger.
Friends called at McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg, from 3-8 p.m. Sunday, May 20. Visitation continued after 9:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary's Church, Luxemburg. C.O.F. and Holy Name Society Rosary was at 6:30 p.m. with a prayer service following at 7 p.m. Sunday. The funeral was held at 11 a.m. Monday at the church with Rev. Milton Suess officiating. Entombment was in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum.
The family wishes to extend a special 'thank you' to his nephew, Bob Berger, Brown County Rescue Squad, and the kind people at the 54 T-Mart for aid given to Joe.