Ted Martin

Ted James Martin of Traverse City, died peacefully at home August 21, 2016 at the age of 94 after a lengthy illness.

Ted was born on January 21, 1922 in Traverse City, the son of Vernon Martin and Sylvia (Ashby) Martin.

Ted was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served during WWII. He worked at Cone Drive Gears for 16 years and was President of Local 21, UAW-CIO at Cone Drive for 10 of those years. He then became an auditor for UAW International (United Automobile Workers) until his retirement. He had served as an officer of the Grand Traverse Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO, and served as area coordinator for the UAW political action program. He was a past member of the Grand Traverse County Red Cross chapter board of directors, and had served on the Salvation Army advisory board. He had been active in the local Democratic Party and the Grand Traverse County Community Chest.

After his retirement, Ted enjoyed traveling to Arizona, and spending time with his dogs Skipper and Smokie. He could always be found outside working in his yard or in his garage. He also enjoyed flying his plane and watching his grandkids swim at his home on Bass Lake where swimming was always free on rainy days.

Ted is survived by his son, William Martin of Mulliken; daughter, Barbara Martin-Klingelsmith of Traverse City; daughter-in-law, Sue (widow of James) Martin of Traverse City; long-time friend and companion Julie Telgard of Mount Pleasant (formerly of Traverse City); and former wife, Joyce Martin of Sunfield. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Scott (Shelli) Martin, Jamie Martin, Ted Martin, Sandra (Rick) Moore, Jason, (Nikki) Martin, Amy (Jeff) Panek and Lori (Rob) Palmer. Ted is also survived by 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack and Junior Martin; former wife, Irene Riley Sleder; son, James Martin; son-in-law, David Klingelsmith; daughter-in-law, Linda Martin; and great-grandson, William Jason Martin.

Cremation has taken place. A brief veterans service will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Park, Elmwood and Eleventh St. on Thursday, September 1, 2016 at 11:30. Memorial contributions may be made to Munson Hospice or Meals on Wheels of Northwest Michigan. Please visit www.lifestorytc.com. The family chose Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City.