Ruth Deljevic
I am so sorry, Martin family. We have all lost a wonderful, kind, upstanding man. This area says, "Share a Memory" and I have so many.
As a little girl, Tom and the Martins were a fixture in my life. I was fortunate to have Debbie as my best childhood friend and we spent every weekend we could together. I can also remember so many Ford Wagon Train camping trips.
Tom made such a positive impression on me, as a dad and husband. He was smart, confident, strong, kind, dependable and you could tell how much he cared about you. All the things you would want a dad and husband to be. He changed my life. Because of him I saw the kind of man I could marry. I wanted to marry someone as good as Tom. I did.
As a young adult, I bought my first 'real' car from Tom and Charolette - a black and silver Granada. I still remember that day. As a young mom, Charolette (and Tom at times), took care of my baby while they were here in Michigan. As an older adult, I loved seeing him in his chair or at a garage sale and giving him a hug. We always had Ford Motor Company in common.
There are many more memories. He knew how good he was for me and my life. He knew he had an impact. I told him a long time ago.
Martins, I am so so sorry. I will miss Tom forever.
Love you,
Ruthie