David Martin Obituary

David Graham Martin left his earthly body on January 25, 2026. Born October 26, 1958 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania living where his father’s ministry took them from Detroit, Michigan to Louisville to Lake Mohawk in Malvern, Ohio. He was a 1976 graduate of Malvern High School where he wrestled and graduated with honors. Dave received the Howard Robertson Scholarship to attend Ohio Northern University. While at Ohio Northern he wrestled and then became a cheerleader. Dave pledged Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity and was involved still as a member of the alumni control board. Dave graduated from ONU in 1980 with a BS in Psychology and Business. He later earned his Master’s Degree from Walsh University in 1993 in addiction’s counseling.

Dave began his career as Juvenile Probation Officer in Lima, Ohio. His heart was in counseling addictions although not himself recovering. He was hired by Edwin Shaw and spent 30 years as an adolescent addiction counselor retiring in 2013 from Akron General/Edwin Shaw. His passion for counseling brought him out of retirement to Townhall II in Kent where he retired from in December of 2024. He leaves a legacy of sobriety from all those who accepted his guidance.

Dave was very involved in volunteering for the former Ellet Amateur Athletic Association (EAAA) and continued to serve on the Boards of the Ellet Baseball and Softball Association along with the Ellet Basketball Association. His hobbies included watching the Cleveland Indians/Guardians and listening to great music both in concert or on 91.3 The Summit where he was a member. He enjoyed camping with family and friends especially at Kelly’s Island and Myrtle Beach. Additionally, he enjoyed “supporting” auctions of all kinds and was our family baker thanks to Grandma Grahams teachings.

Preceded in death by his parents Reverend David E. and Marilyn Martin, brother Mark Martin, and nephew Luke Martino. He is survived by his ONU sweetheart Kimberlee A. Knight Martin, his sons David P. Martin of Akron, Ohio and Cory J. (Kelli) Martin of Lexington, Kentucky; brother Eric (Emily) and sister Amy (John) Martino both of Seattle, Washington. He cherished and will miss his 7 grandchildren: Hailey, Isaac, Eli, Gracie, Henley, Kennedy, and Hayes.

Dave said, “I didn’t plan on having it end like this!” but is at peace with the end of his story and the legacy that he leaves. Please listen to J.D. Eichers “Evergreen.” and know that Dave is listening too. A contribution can be made in Dave’s name to 91.3 The Summit or The Autism Society of Greater Akron.

The family would like to thank all healthcare workers who showed him compassion and caring for the last 4 months. Special thanks to Summa Hospice for guiding us through the last days.

Cremation has occurred. A Celebration of Life will follow in May at Atwood Lake Campground. Contact the family if you would like to attend.

To share a memory of David or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.