Robert "Bob" Martin

Robert “Bob” A. Martin, 81, of Willow Street, passed away on April 3, 2026. Born and raised in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Robert and Beatrice (Andrew) Martin. He was also the devoted husband to Faith (Reese) Martin, with whom he shared over 43 years of marriage.

After graduating from McCaskey High School in 1962, Bob served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era as a Photointelligenceman, 2nd class. He took great pride in his military service, having been stationed on the USS Constellation in 1966 and the USS Forrestal in 1967, where he miraculously survived the infamous Forrestal fire. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Bob held many jobs, notably as a mapping technician for the Lancaster County Planning Commission and Lancaster County Assessment Office. Outside of his professional life, Bob loved to volunteer at the Lancaster Theater Arts Association and Opera Workshop, assisting with shows as part of the Lancaster Kiwanis Club. He was also a member of the Willow Street Lions Club, Lancaster Cosmopolitan club, and American Legion Post 34.

Bob is survived by his wife Faith; sister in-law Dawn Reese; brother in-law Philip Reese; niece Renee (Scott) Stemberger; great-niece Rylie; and great-nephew Reid. He is preceded in passing by his parents; brother in-law Lawrence Reese; and his many friends and comrades who served with him on the USS Forrestal, whom he made sure to honor every year.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Grace Lutheran Memorial Garden, 517 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603 at 12:30PM. Friends and family are welcome to attend a greeting prior beginning at 11:45AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church at the address above, or to the Humane League of Lancaster by visiting humanepa.org/donate/.