Douglas Charles Martin went to be with our Lord on July 11th, 2026. Doug was born on March 4th, 1940 in Saranac Lake, NY, the youngest of six children, to Benjamin and Margaret Martin.

He graduated high school from the Saranac Lake CSD in 1957. Following in the footsteps of his four older brothers, Doug joined the military, enlisting in the United States Air Force. Stationed at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, he proudly served from February 9th, 1959 to February 8th, 1963 as an Airman 3rd Class (E-3) radio operator.

Doug briefly returned to New York after his military service before moving to Lincoln, NE to work. There, he became friends with Jerry Gilland, who introduced him to his cousin, and the love of his life, Patsy Walden, from Bigelow, MO. They were married in Lincoln, NE on August 7th, 1965.

A few months later, Doug and Patsy moved to Mineral Wells, TX, where Patsy gave birth to their two sons, Patrick and Darren.

After a brief stay in the Wichita, KS area, Doug and Patsy and the boys moved to St. Joseph, MO in 1972, eventually settling down in Savannah, MO. Doug became a locksmith, serving St. Joseph and the surrounding rural areas for several years while also repairing sewing machines, a lifelong hobby of his.

Doug retired in 2002. He and Patsy stayed in Savannah until 2018, when they moved back to St. Joseph. Doug enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, often throwing a football or baseball around or riding his bike along the Missouri River trails with them. He enjoyed growing tomatoes, an occasional trip to Florida to see his sister, and, of course, retelling the tale of his hitchhiking journey along Route 66.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, Patrick (Sherri) Martin; and Darren (Kim) Martin; seven grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

A service will be held on Friday, July 17th, 2026 at Community Christian Church, 2009 Mason Rd., St. Joseph, MO with visitation from 5:00-6:00 p.m. and a memorial service from 6:00-7:00 p.m. A light dinner will follow.

The family suggests for memorial donations to be directed to Community Christian Church in lieu of floral arrangements.