Marc "Marcus" Martin

Marcus Catlin Martin, 61, passed away on October 7, 2025. He was born on May 6, 1963, in Columbia, Missouri, to Vwadek Marciniak and Mary Melissa Smith (nee Williams).

When Marcus was very young, his family moved to the East Lansing area when his father accepted a faculty position at Michigan State University. Marc spent his formative years in the East Lansing community, but lived in many places, in Memphis, TN., Tupelo, MS., Detroit, MI., Garden, MI before returning to East Lansing in 2020. Making numerous friends along the way.

Marc worked as a truck driver and in the food industry, but his true passion was people. He loved spending time with friends and family, sharing stories, and filling any room with his laughter and warmth. Marcus was a gentle giant of a man with a generous nature and giving spirit. Though he did not accumulate much in the way of material possessions, he was always the first to help a friend in need, asking for nothing in return. His kindness and willingness to support those around him were hallmarks of his character, and he will be deeply missed for his open heart and steady presence.

Marc is survived by his brother Mies Martin (Beth) of Grand Rapids, Michigan; his brother Christian Martin of Hawaii; his step brothers Steven Smith, Patrick Smith (Pamela), and Michael Smith (Brenda); and his nephews and niece Andrew, Aidan, Michael, Shannon, Connor, and Cody. His two Aunts, Ann (Robert) Schoals (nee Williams) and Elizabeth Williams and numerous cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Vwadek Marciniak, his mother Mary Melissa Smith (nee Williams), and his stepfather Gordon Smith.

Per Marc’s request there will be no funeral. His wish is to have his cremated ashes spread on Brockway Mountain in the Keweenaw near his mother’s resting spot.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, or that friends and family honor Marcus's memory by showing kindness and generosity to those in need, as he did throughout his life.