John Alan Martin

If you noticed a dimming in the light of the world on January 8, it was the passing of John Alan Martin. John blessed us with 65 years, which he dedicated to making others laugh and feel warm and welcome in his company.

John leaves behind a multitude of family and friends who loved him dearly throughout the years – his wife, Vicki Cozatt Martin; his son, John Perry (and fiancée Alison) Martin of Gilbert; his daughter, Julie Nicole (and husband Michael) Shockley of Seattle, Wash.; and four grandchildren, Kai Martin, Colton Martin, June Shockley and Bennett Shockley. He is also survived by one brother, Daniel Lee (and wife Lorie) Martin of Glastonbury, Conn.

He was born to Helen (French) and John Marion Martin in Crawfordsville, Ind. on Dec. 10, 1952, though he was raised in Danville, Ill. through high school. He graduated from Purdue University earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Industrial engineering.

John met Vicki in their church Sunday school but finally convinced her to date him in high school; they are both proud Danville Vikings and Purdue Boilermakers. John enjoyed living all over the country - in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, Washington, Arizona, Kansas and Delaware. His final residence was in Fountain Hills.

John was an avid golfer and reader of American history. Music played in his veins and some of his fondest memories were playing the trumpet in bands throughout high school, college and beyond. Most notably, his college rock band “Chameleon” and his ‘50s acapella doo-wop group, the “Grease ‘n Beers.”

John will be missed for his vibrancy, his ability to fill the room with energy and laughter, and his generosity in handing out extra mulligans on the golf course. The world could use more people like John: people who treat everyone with respect, sincerity and warmth. He was truly one of a kind and will be missed by all who met him.

A memorial service was held at Messinger Mortuary, Fountain Hills. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Lymphoma & Leukemia Society (www.lls.org) or Hospice of the Valley.