John Richard Martin

John Martin, age 88, was welcomed into Jesus’ arms on 11/14/2020 at The Shores of Lake Phalen after a brief struggle with Covid-19. In life he was passionate about making everyone know how much Jesus loved them, loving his family and others he knew, and giving generously of his time and money to charities. He also loved softball, umpiring and watching sports. John served his country working for the NSA during the Korean war and then served his community in his 37 year teaching career, mainly at Castle Elementary and John Glenn Junior High. After retirement he kept busy umpiring softball games, working as a job coach and volunteering at Gillette Children’s and the Salvation Army Food Shelf. John was born 4/5/1932 in Owatonna, MN to Floyd & Ferna (Kenyon) Martin. He married June Ellen McCabe on December 26, 1959, who preceded him in death 9/14/2017. He is survived by their four children, Polly Fry, Judith (Chris) Reinertson, Kevin (Ann) Martin, Karen Martin, and 11 grandchildren. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wed, Nov 25 at 11:00 am (10:00am visitation prior) at First Evangelical Free Church, 2696 Hazelwood St, Maplewood MN 55109. Private interment to follow at Fort Snelling Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Meals on Wheels or Salvation Army Food Shelf. Live streaming of John's Funeral will be available at the time of the Service. Go to this link to access https://youtu.be/DjJoR--7J4k