Wilfred C. Martin

February 8, 1949 - May 4, 2022

Life's Light was extinguished on May 4. 2022 for Wilfred C. Martin, age 73, of Joplin, Missouri. He is survived by his wife, Freda Sue Martin, also of Joplin; a brother, Terry Martin of Pennsylvania. He is also survived by four stepchildren and their spouses, fifteen stepgrandchildren and their spouses, several great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; and last, but not least, Cricket the cat. Will spent most of his life in the Peoria, Illinois area where for 30 years he worked for, and retired from, Caterpillar. He was a loyal union member in his local UAW. He served as a mechanic while serving in the Vietnam War. He was a Specialist 5 in the Army 1st Division Air Cavalry. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service and Vietnam Campaign Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Air Medal. He will be remembered by his family as a doting husband to Freda, and a loving and generous "Uncle Will" ( a name he preferred over grandfather). His home was always open; what was his was yours, and everyone was welcomed and made comfortable. Will enjoyed woodworking, and he built many additions to his Peoria home. Many of the furnishings in the home were his handiwork. Will was a strong Christian man. He shared the Word with family and friends alike. More importantly, he lived it. He moved to Joplin to be closer to family. Here we revelled in his humorous stubbornness and subtle wisecracks. Although he was not much of a conversationalist, just to sit by him was a joy, because love emanated from Will, even in silence. He is dearly missed, but we rejoice knowing he is no pain free. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.