Mike Martin

� Edward Michael Martin, Jr., 68, of Statesville, left this earthly life for a more peaceful one on Friday, July 29, 2011, at Gordon Hospice House after a short illness. Mike was born in Detroit, MI on March 21, 1943, the son of the late Edward, M. Sr., and Patricia Godfrey Martin. He was also preceded in death by a son, Michael Curtis Martin. He is survived by his wife, Karyl Wing Martin, of the home; daughter, Cynthia Martin of Statesville; three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers, Daniel N. Martin and Christopher J. Martin (Kathy) of Statesville; aunts Harriet Drysdale of Michigan and Pauline Schanen (Roger) of Florida along with several nieces and nephews. He is also remembered by his many loyal and caring friends. Mike was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps from 1960 thru 1964. He retired after 28 years at Bell & Howard Chevrolet in Statesville, where he excelled as a salesman and constantly achieved the Salesman-of-the-Month Award. Prior to joining Bell & Howard, he served the City of Statesville as a firefighter. During his retirement he collected and sold antiques and participated in many antique shows locally and in surrounding states. His passion was also classic cars, and many in Statesville can remember seeing him drive around in "Pinky", his beloved pink-and-white 1955 Ford Crown Victoria. Mike was of the Catholic faith. A memorial service will be conducted in the Nicholson Funeral Home Chapel at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 3, 2011, with Deacon Matthew Reilly officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence. The family would like to thank everyone for their calls, prayers, visits and concern for Mike. Special thanks to the staff at Gordon Hospice House for their tender care and concern, and to those friends who were with the family and Mike during his illness. Donations may be made to Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville, N.C. 28625. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com/obituaries . Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family of Edward Michael Martin, Jr.