Daniel Frank Martin

Daniel Frank Martin, age 76, passed away surrounded by his loving family at his home in Bonne Terre, Missouri on January 3, 2023. He was the son of the late Cleta Jewell Martin (nee Gunnett) and Joe “Yock” Frank Martin, born in St. Louis, Missouri on May 25th, 1946. He was preceded in death by his brothers Jim, Jerry, and Mike, his twin sister, Donna (and her husband, Jim Tate), nephews Jimmie Wade and David Martinez, and his son-in-law, Jason Harris.

Mr. Martin is survived by his wife and best friend, Susan “Suzy Q” Martin; 7 children, Delinda “Dee” Willmore (husband Phil), Dani Jo “DJ” Smith, Shawn Lee Martin (wife Vonessa), Erica Harris, Becca Brooks (husband Trent), Britni Cavins and honorary daughter, Nicole Patterson; 27 grandchildren, Chris Hulsey (wife Ashton), Todd Hulsey (partner Sakira), Jake Smith (wife Stephanie), Briley Smith (partner Ana), Jobe Smith, Laney Smith, Skylar Martin, Darrin Moore, Dakota Marler, River Marler, Dalton Brooks (wife Morgan), Ethan Matthews (partner Hailey), Kale Brooks, Lily Cavins, Kaylee Cavins, Emalee Cavins, Chloe Cavins, Lucas Cavins, Valerie Willmore, Logan Willmore and honorary grandchild, Emma Shaffer; 8 great-grandchildren, Beckham Hulsey, Brooklyn Hulsey, Sophia Hulsey, Payton Davidson, Jackson Davidson, Jace, Atlee Mathews, and Baby Coen; brother, William Martin (wife Melba), and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and Marine Corp brothers from the 2nd Platoon, 3rd Marine division.

Dan was a member of the Bonne Terre Freemasons and VFW (Veterans of Foreign War). Dan was a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp. and was proud to serve for two-tours during the Vietnam war, where he earned several medals, including the National Defense medal, Vietnam Service medal, Vietnam Campaign medal, Pistol Sharpshooter medal, Rifle Sharpshooter medal, and Presidential Unit ribbon. He was a loader in the Armor division for heavy duty tanks. He cherished the relationships he had with his platoon brothers and spouses and often traveled the country for military reunions. Citizens of Bonne Terre will remember his many flying flags outside his house on School Street. As a proud American, it was important to him that he flew the United States, Marine Corp, Prisoner-of-War, and Vietnam Veteran flags daily.

He grew up in Bonne Terre with his four brothers and sister and lived much of his life in the area. A member of the Second Baptist Church in East Bonne Terre, he particularly enjoyed many Sundays congregating with his close-knit Martin family around his mother’s house. Although of modest means, Dan was rich in love with his wife and his family members and lived in appreciation of those around him. His biggest joy was a house full of noisy children who called him Papa. A born creative person, Dan also enjoyed drawing, painting, and tinkering in his shop. Christmas Day family Nerf wars won’t be the same without him. Those who knew him will miss his warm kindness and generosity of spirit.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 9, 2023 at the C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre, from 11:30 AM until time of service at 1:30pm with Pastor Stan Payne officiating. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. in memory of U.S. Marine veteran, Dan Martin.

Arrangements are under the direction of C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre. View obituary and share condolences online at www.www.czboyer.com