Michael Dean Martin

July 10, 1952 ~ October 24, 2025 (age 73)

Michael “Mike” Dean Martin, born July 10, 1952, at St. Joe Osteopathic Hospital in South Bend Indiana was taken home to heaven on October 24, 2025, from his home in North Liberty, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents Guy and Charlotte “Judy” (Peiffer) Martin and his brother Tom.

He leaves behind his soulmate and wife of 34 years, Annette (Shoue) Martin; son Jeffrey (Sarah) Martin and their four children Brandon, Jace, Grace, and Aycen; daughter, Elizabeth (Robert) Hapner, and their son Sebastian: son Adam (Ashley) Gallegos and their three children, Evan, Reid, and Nora; sister, Barb (Steve) Griffith and nieces Chelsea and Cathy; sister, Janet (Matt) Sommers and their children Schuyler, Lauren, and Nick; sister-in-law, Sharon Skonie Martin and daughter, Toni; his in-laws Dean and Esther Shoue; John (Janet), Jim (Carolee), Doug (Amy), Vivian Bolen; a wealth of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends that brought him much love and happiness. 

Pastor Mike, as he was known by many, was a shining light for God in the lives of the many people that he touched. Throughout his life, from Indiana to California and back again, Mike led with love, humor, compassion, an adventurer's spirit, and his steadfast and deep love for Christ. Each day when he woke up, he lived the life that he felt God wanted him to, and with a servant’s heart, he would demonstrate by his actions the embodiment of God's Love for all of us here. Though we cheer him on during his grand adventure, we feel the deep ache and pain of losing his light, which guided and comforted so many of us. We ask that you remember him not for how he left this world, but instead for how joyously he lived his life and the profound impact he had on so many from Indiana to California and all the stops in between. 

After graduating from Washington High School, Class of 1971, he entered Michiana College and graduated with his Bachelor's Degree which led him to Bendix/Honeywell. His deep desire to share God's love with all found him taking an early retirement and led him to Bethany seminary to become a later-in-life minister. Sharing God’s love with all was his passion. First with his California congregation, and back in Indiana at Elkhart Valley Church of the Bretheren until his retirement from Little Pines Church of the Brethren, both located in Elkhart Indiana. His dedication to his faith and his servant’s heart along with his dedication to bringing God’s light to those most in need of it epitomized his joyful and caring nature. 

Outside of his life's work, Mike enjoyed photography, rooting for the White Sox, Notre Dame, and Da Bears, nature walks and camping, cooking, riding his Goldwing, golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He made an amazing brisket and homemade mustard. As a founding member of the Michiana Alumni Band, music was a lifelong passion for him whether playing on one of his many instruments or by creating the sounds with his voice. He always remembered to stop and smell the roses or count the stars while sharing that wonder with all of us and reminding us of God's goodness. 

Mike deeply loved his family and friends. He was a devoted son, husband, father, and grandfather. He was his grandchildren's biggest fan. He was always there to cheer on his loved ones at shows, band and choir performances, and sporting events. Mike will be remembered for his faith, his endless love, and the joy he brought to those around him. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the North Liberty Necessary Pantry or Heifer International (heifer.org). 

10/31/2025 DEC

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Michael-D-Martin