Richard E. Martin

Richard “Rich” E. Martin, 83, of Valmeyer, IL, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday December 1, 2023. Rich was born on July 3, 1940, in St. Louis, MO to Elmer and Lorraine Martin, nee Schmaltz, and they precede him in death. Rich was also preceded in death by his sons: Ricky David Martin, Dennis Keith Martin and Jefferson David Martin, his stepson Lenny Chambliss and his step-grandson Joshua Chambliss.

Rich enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1958. He served stateside as an electrician and serviced bombers until he was honorably discharged in 1964. In civilian life he worked as a heavy equipment operator and owned his own construction business. Rich was a dedicated Shriner and member of the Meramec Masonic Lodge 313 AF & AM in Eureka, MO for many years. He was also a member of the Trinity Family Church in Valmeyer, IL. In his spare time, Rich enjoyed hunting, fishing and working on various vehicles. In later years, he loved traveling from coast to coast with his beloved wife, Catherine. Rich had a special bond with his beloved Coton de Tulear puppy, Bunny. Most important to Rich was spending time with his family and friends and he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and dear friend to many.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of over 24 years, Catherine Martin, nee Flake; his children: Richard (Gerry) Martin, Natalie (Kevin) Steele, his step-children: Ronnie Chambliss and Michelle (Virgil) Chambliss-Cain, his siblings: Mark Davidson and Cheryl (David) Blackwell; his grandchildren: Natasha Martin, Jessica (Neal) Pettijohn, Matthew (Patricia) Green, Cassidy (Jacob) Fahrner, Magdelen Kettler, Luke Martin; his step-grandchildren: Jesse Blevins-Chambliss, Gabriel Anderson, Seth Chambliss; his great-grandchildren: Haden Martin-Active Duty Marine, Ruby Pettijohn, Nash Pettijohn, Trip Pettijohn, Remington Green and Carolina Fahrner, his niece Melissa (Josh) Edson and her loving family, his nephew Michael (Savannah) Bunnell and his loving family in addition to extended family and beloved friends.

No services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be directed to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, Processing Center, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 or online at www.lovetotherescue.org.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.