Barbara Lee Martin

Barb was the eternal optimist, challenging beliefs and assumptions, and encouraging others to explore for themselves, right up to her last breath. She was a teacher to the end never judging, always trying to see the best in others and to help them see their best selves as well. Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved brother Kevin and both of her parents Mary Ann (Clubb) and David Martin. Barb had many pleasant memories of growing up in Richmond, MI and completing her formal education at MSU in Social Work. She is survived by her long-time partner, Lisa Larson, and her brothers Craig (Barbara) Martin of Morrisville, PA, Robert Martin, of Chippewa Lake, OH, David (Lois) Lewis of Durand, MI, and Dennis (Kathy) Lewis of Lambertville, MI and her loving Aunt Janet Klauka, of Richmond MI, along with eleven nieces and nephews and two cousins. Barb was “Consummate professional” who was destined to be in the services field. Barb, as she was known to all, was a social worker, in fact and in spirit, to the end, advocating for others, children, families, and victims of violence, and recently those in Home Hemodialysis. Though it was eventually the kidney failure that took the life out of her, she certainly gave it a run for the money. Barb embraced the physical challenges in her life, she worked hard and stayed inspirationally positive in rehab, in dialysis, and when getting surgeries (for the umpteenth time). She touched everyone who worked with her. She would be challenged and respond with “do you have more for me to do?” Barb loved music deeply whether she was singing, playing clarinet, or the oboe. She also adored traveling, and had a special passion for the UP and shorelines of Michigan. Barb was an earthy person, loving animals, plants and nature. If there was a museum anywhere or an old graveyard she was all-in for exploring. Some of her favorite moments in retirement were gambling with her mother, traveling to the shore with her brother and sister-in law, and visiting her nieces and family in Ohio. Barb found her match with her partner of 22 years; there could have been no more love in the world for either of them. There was nothing in the world that they would do not for each other. The shared experience of their love and life together was much more than the “contract” of marriage alone could hold; true spouses in heart if not in law. Though she will be deeply missed, her light shines on in the hearts and memories of those who love her and those whose lives she touched. A private ceremony of her life will be held at a later date. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes. www.grlansing.com