James W. Martin

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James W. Martin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend on July 19, 2025 at the age of 85. He was born September 7, 1939, in Shawano, to Alex and Frieda (Fink) Martin. He graduated from Shawano High School in 1957. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1962, where he had the unique experience of serving in Germany at the same time as Elvis Presley. After his service, he pursued his passion for aviation by attending Airline School in Kansas City. 

Jim spent his career as a station agent, working in air freight, and customer service in the airline industry, starting at Chicago O'Hare for North Central Airlines. He later transferred to Milwaukee Mitchell Field, with North Central becoming Republic Airlines, and eventually made his way to Green Bay to work for Northwest Airlines until his well-deserved retirement around 2004. 

When he wasn't at the airport, Jim truly enjoyed life to the fullest and had a wonderful sense of humor. He loved to fish, travel, and hunt, and he found joy in grocery shopping during his retired years. His spirit soared while traveling, with favorite destinations being Hawaii, Florida, and Ireland. A lifelong sports fan, Jim cheered on the Braves, Brewers, and Packers with unwavering enthusiasm. He also delighted in games of sheepshead and camping. But above all, Jim cherished the moments spent with his loving wife, children and grandchildren. Jim was a devoted member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he shared his faith and built lasting friendships within the community. 

Jim leaves behind his wife Margaret Carpenter; son Chris (Carrie) Martin and their children Chantel (Mark) Blackman and Cienna Martin; daughter Bonnie (Travis) Heider and her children Braden (Ryan Silva) Peterson and Brooke (Cody) Peterson and step-daughter Kiara (Tony) Moua; daughter Beth (Randy) Perdue and their son Alex Perdue; sister-in-law Nancy Martin.

In addition to his parents, Alex and Frieda, Jim was preceded in death by his siblings: Lorraine Torres, Delores Kukuck and Robert Martin.

Family and friends may visit at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 210 S. Oneida St, Green Bay, on Friday, July 25, from 10:00am until 11:45am. Funeral service will be held at noon with Pastor Paul Pett officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Green Bay. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Unity Hospice in Jim’s name.

Our family would like to extend a special thank you to Unity Hospice.