John E. Martin

John E. Martin, 87, of Canton, OH passed away on May 13, 2025, peacefully in his sleep. He was 45 days shy of his 88th birthday. John was born in Steel City (Donora) Pennsylvania on June 27, 1937. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and John Martin; three older sisters, Margaret, Dorothy, and Betty. John is survived by his wife, Jean L. Martin; four children, Sue Martin, Mike (Arlain) Martin all of Roanoke, Virginia, Jessica (Drew) Cooke of Canton, Ohio, and Molly (Stuart) Myers of Mansfield, Texas. He was beyond proud of his five grandchildren, Zach Martin, Alexandra and JT Cooke, Wyatt and Sophia Cundiff. A call or visit from his grandchildren made his day.

John's work ethic was demonstrated at a young age, working at a gas station when he was 13 years old, saving money to buy his first car. He then followed his father and uncle working in the steel mill in Pittsburgh. He enrolled and graduated from the State Police Academy in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Drafted into the US Army, he was stationed at Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, where he served as an MP. After his military service, he was stationed in Erie, Pennsylvania, where he started his career with the Pennsylvania State Police. He retired after 34 years of dedicated and selfless service. After his retirement he and Jean moved to Roanoke, Virginia, where John worked as a US Marshall for the Federal Courthouse. He was a lifelong member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Jean and John then moved to Cleveland Browns territory, to be closer to family, and because apparently they missed lake effect snow! To be clear, John Martin IS and ALWAYS will be a die-hard YINZER, Terrible Towel waving, black and gold loving, Pittsburgh Steeler fan! His request for his burial was his old grass cutting, faded Steeler t-shirt!

Canton, Ohio is where he officially enjoyed retirement, with golf being a favorite pastime, going to grandchildren's sports events, mowing his grass in perfect lines, and keeping a well-organized garage, while listening to polkas. He always said Frankie Yankovic was the king of polka.

In no particular order, some random thoughts about our John, Dad, and Pa:

-He ran the Presque Isle Marathon in his mid-40's.

-A true patriot, he's always had a flagpole at every house he's lived in and proudly flew the American flag.

-Known for his sometimes inappropriate, but always funny story telling.

-He was featured on the show, Discovery ID, as one of the detectives who worked on the Lake Erie Murders.

-He was part of a special security detail when dignitaries came to town and worked with the Secret Service for several past presidents and first ladies.

-He loved simple things, Krispy Kreme donuts, McDonald's coffee and a #13 sub from Jersey Mikes.

-He went skydiving at age 82 and was thrilled about it!

-Mowing the grass and having a cold beer afterward.

-He loved road-trips with the North East guys to Notre Dame football games.

-How could we forget his Polish heritage- he was one proud Polak! He got to enjoy his last Easter with his family and eating the traditional "Garbage."

-He coached Little League.

-He attended Catholic grade school taught by the nuns and served as an altar boy when mass was in Latin.

-He and a state police buddy spent many hours building our home on 78 Agawam Street and brought us to Grape Picker Country, where we made and still have lifelong friends. He added a basketball court in the backyard where many pick up games were played.

-He was not a chef in the kitchen but could grill a mean steak.

-He was known for being tough but fair, trusted his gut, and was a straight shooter.

He became more sentimental in his later years, reminiscing about the past. Even though his body declined, he was of sound mind and fought like H***! He believed in Jesus Christ and his faith never wavered. We will miss him dearly and like to think he's "hitting the links" right now!

Nostrovia!!! (He always said Pittsburgh was a "shot and a beer" town)

Deepest thanks to Mercy Hospital and Bethany Nursing Home, especially Dr. Joe. Their care, compassion and banter were very appreciated by John and all of his family.

As a true patriot it's John's request for donations to be made to:

Tunnels2Towers Foundation

2361 Hyman Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306

or online at T2T.org

A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, Friday, May 16th, 2025 at 10:00 AM

St. Paul's Catholic Church

241 S Main Street

North Canton, OH 44720

The family will receive guests from 9:30-10:00 AM at the church.

Following mass, join us for a light lunch and fellowship at:

The Monticello Barn

1480 Chadford Gate SE

Canton, OH 44709