Jim Martin
James Edward Martin, 90, of Ludington, passed away in the comfort of his home on Monday, June 9, 2025.
He was born May 22, 1935, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Maude (Andereck) Martin and Lester Fred Martin.
Jim attended Fulmer Elementary in Mishawaka, Ind., Thomas Jefferson Jr. High and one year at John Adams High School in South Bend, Ind., before he was privileged to complete his high school education at Admiral Farragut Naval Academy in Toms River, New Jersey. Upon graduation he won an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy which he declined in order to attend Notre Dame University. Jim later enrolled at Bethel University to pursue a career in pastoral ministry.
During his college seminary years in Goshen, Ind., Jim served Waterford Congregational Christian Church. Upon graduation from Goshen College Seminary, Jim was appointed to the United Missionary Church in LaPorte, Ind. where he served from 1963 to 1966. In his next assignment he served as associate minister at Monroe Street United Methodist Church in Toledo, Ohio from 1966 to 1973. During his service there, Jim earned his graduate degree in psychology at the University of Detroit. In his concern to help others attain optimal mental health he became a licensed psychologist in 1973 and opened a private practice – James E. Martin and Associates. During that time Jim co-founded and was active in Toledo Academy of Professional Psychology, where he once served as president. Other activities dear to his heart were his work in Haiti, where he, with the Rev. Grayson Atha, started Grace Children’s Hospital dedicated to the treatment of tuberculosis. He also served on the board of Planned Parenthood of Toledo, Ohio. Jim sustained a successful private practice for many years, retiring in 1995, where he moved to his beloved Ludington.
In retirement years, Jim continued a lifelong love of fishing in addition to becoming a serious collector of antique fishing tackle; attending many national shows and conventions while greatly enjoying the camaraderie it offered.
Jim and Lynne spent many weekends traveling the Midwest in pursuit of favored antiques, most often taking their English springers along – Marty, Max, Maggie, or Moses. Cooper, the current “NAD” – (Never Another Dog) has been the most recent pet, but no less loved.
Jim also enjoyed the privilege of more time for reading books of his choice – historical fiction, civil war history, and progressive theology. While in Ludington, Jim served on the board of Habitat for Humanity and became supportive of AFFEW and COVE. The U-Dig-It Community Garden became the focus of Jim’s last years’ passion and energy. He devoted many hours to creating, organizing, and growing the community garden.
As a later step in his spiritual journey, he felt most at home in the Universal Unitarian congregation of People’s Church, where he also served on various committees.
Known as a loving dad and grandfather, he greatly enjoyed those special times with family. He is survived by the love of his life, A. Lynne Martin, whom he married in October 1985. He is also survived by his children: Jennifer Jean Olsen, Leonard James Martin and his children by marriage to Lynne: Susan Bassett, Cheryl Lambert, and Dr. David (Allison) Erb. He has celebrated the births of fourteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to family, Jim has had many valued friendships, some for over 70 years. Jim liked to say, “friends’ matter” and “family is where you find it”.
Cremation has taken place, and following Jim’s request, a memorial service will be held at People’s Church on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11 a.m.
Jim requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the U-Dig-It Community Garden, P.O. Box 177, Ludington, MI 49431.
Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.
.png)