Thomas M. Martin

Thomas M. "Tom" Martin, Sr., 80, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully, Monday, September 25, 2023 after a long illness. He was born March 21, 1943 in Rockford, IL, the son of Harry E. and Dorothy V. (Myers) Martin. Tom proudly served in the United States Army for 6 years. He married the love of his life, Linda R. Barton, on September 12, 1964 in Rockford, IL. Tom worked as an operating engineer for Gregory Anderson and Rockford Blacktop, and was in the Operating Engineers, Local 150. He enjoyed fishing, painting, jigsaw puzzles, video games, watching movies, reading. Most of all, Tom adored his family and loved spending time with them.

Tom is loved and missed by his loving wife of 59 years, Linda; children, Thomas M. (Ronda Sheldon) Martin, Jr., Kelly R. (Merly) Martin, Colleen L. (Paul) Polak, Patty R. (Steve Ward) Martin; grandchildren, Thomas M. Martin, III, Ashley M. Polak, Daniel T. (Emily) Kent, Jason E. Polak, Erin T. Kent and Moira C. Martin; siblings, Harry E. (Bonnie) Martin, Rosalita M. (Richard) Kuhl, Donald S. (Tamae) Martin, John L. (Nancy) Martin, Holly L. (Joseph) Augustine; uncle, Donald Myers; as well numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and niece Billie Jo Augustine.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Advantage Funeral Home, 7000 W. State St, Rockford, IL, 61102. Burial to immediately follow in Willwood Burial Park. To share a condolence, please visit www.advantagerockford.com.