Charles R. "Dick" Martin, 81 of Lakeland, FL and formerly Newark, OH. passed away peacefully September 23, 2023 at Lakeland Regional Hospital.

He was born August 2, 1942 in Newark to the late Glen E. and Ida R. (Jinks) Martin. He served in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam Era from 1959 to 1963. He trained as an Electrician and Fireman. He served on the USS Randolph and USS Currituck during the 1961-1962 Far East Cruise. He received an honorable discharge in August 1963. He was employed for 28 years at Rockwell International/Meritor. While at Rockwell he was the first graduate of the Electrician Apprenticeship Program to become a qualified Electrician Journeyman. Mr. Martin was a member and Past Master of Newark Masonic Lodge #554 F&AM of which he states brought him a lot of joy. He was a lifetime member of the Buckeye Lake FOE, American Legion Post # 104 Pinellas Park for 15 years, a member and helped establish the Buckeye Lake Royal Order of the Moose. He enjoyed living in the Florida sunshine, playing blue grass music, traveling, coin collecting, golfing and watching car races.

Survivors include his children, Roby R. Martin of Columbus, Charles R. (Pattie) Martin, Laura (Venchie) Carroll all of Newark; two grandchildren, Angela Martin, Chace Martin; great-grandson, Liam Forest; sister, Teresa Kincaid of Kirkersville; nieces, nephews; and his loving companion, Brenda Cole of Lakeland.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 49 years whom he married January 1, 1961, Carol (Nelson) Martin; twin brothers, Don Martin and Zon Martin.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation Friday, October 20, 2023 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Newark Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 1850 West Main Street. Licking County Veterans Alliance will conduct military honors at 5:45 p.m. Masonic services will be held at 8:00 p.m.

The family requests memorial contributions to the Alzheimers Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

A special thank you to all who reached out with cards, meals, wonderful memories and words of comfort.