Obituary for Carl Martin

Carl Edward Martin

(December 8, 1939 – March 22, 2017)

Carl Edward Martin passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2017. He was born December 08, 1939 in Pawnee, Oklahoma to Edward “Tommy” Martin and Reba Mae (Bruno) Martin.

Carl spent his formative years in and around Tonkawa, attending St. Joseph Catholic school and later graduating from Okmulgee Tech. He was a fierce competitor, with a deep love for sports. He shared this passion with his close friends and instilled the same interests and drive to succeed in his three children. Although he worked long hours as a prominent business owner, Carl always found time to coach the various teams for his children and others in our community. As a young man, Carl excelled in the sport of boxing and finished with an undefeated record, prior to raising a family. Carl enjoyed many hobbies and interests, he liked everything about motorcycles, parts and bike rallies. He was an avid hunter, both locally and abroad. His most recent expedition was in 2012 to South Africa. His legendary marksmanship is now impressed upon two continents.

Quick witted, yet stoic, Carl was both tough and compassionate. His loyalty to family and friends is well known across this area. He was a problem solver by nature and his attitude garnered respect from those that met him. These attributes served him well in establishing a thriving heating and air business along with numerous construction ventures. After retiring from business, Carl began another career, serving as the President of The Tonkawa Tribe of Oklahoma. During his tenure, he established the legal avenues for the construction of the casinos, acquired new lands for the tribe and provided the foundation of the Indian health care clinic. His nephew Russell Martin, carries on this legacy today and now serves in the same capacity.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents (Tommy and Reba), two brothers (Sonny and Charles) and a sister (Bernice).

He is survived by his brother Bartholomew, sister Patricia, daughters Carla and Tamra, and son Darrin. Carl has 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A rosary service will be conducted at 7:30 pm Friday, March 24 at Trout Funeral Home Chapel in Ponca City.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, March 25, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, 320 W. North Ave., Tonkawa OK, beginning at 10 a.m. Following the ceremony, he will be laid to rest at the Tonkawa Tribal Cemetery.

Source: Trout Funeral Home