Robert L. Martin

Robert L. Martin, 88, of Benton Harbor, passed away, Friday, April 27, 2018 at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Colfax & Kline Ave., Benton Harbor with Rev. Jeff  Bollwerk officiating.  Burial will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens in Coloma.  Friends may visit with the family from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph.  Memorials in Robert’s name may be made to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.  Those wishing to sign Robert’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Robert was born July 30, 1929 in Benton Harbor to Ludwig & Otillie (Stengal) Martin.  He graduated from Benton Harbor High School, Class of 1947 and gained employment at Whirlpool Corporation where he was a member of the Whirlpool Management Club and the Twin City Toastmasters, as well as helping on the family farm in Benton Harbor.  On October 16, 1954, he married the former Frieda Piel in Winnapeg, Manitoba, Canada. Robert retired from Whirlpool in 1984 after 37 ½ years.  He was a member of St. Matthew’s where he served on the Board of Trustees and the Church Council.  Robert enjoyed bowling, watching Westerns on TV, and the time spent with his family-especially his grandchildren. Robert is survived by his son James Martin of Benton Harbor; three granddaughters-Cheryl (Cortney) Burnett & Laura Martin, both of Benton Harbor, Barbara Martin of Ludington, MI; four great-grandchildren-Courtney, Cory, Isabel & Victor; and numerous nieces & nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife Frieda on July 6, 2011, his brother Frederick Martin, and four sisters-Margaret Weise, Lydia Strieter, and infants-Norma & Ida Martin.