William (Bill) L. Martin

William (Bill) Leon Martin

December 8th, 1955 to April 3rd, 2023

William Leon Martin (Bill) was born in Monroe, Michigan on December 8th 1955 to Jeannette (Smith) Martin and J.C. Junior Martin. Bill died on April 3rd 2023 at age 67 in Dearborn, Michigan after an extended illness.

Bill was born on his sister Dianne's birth date and many birthdays were shared in the years to come. He was raised in Monroe, Michigan where he resided for almost his whole life. He attended Monroe Public Schools.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his only child Matthew Hill, his former wife Jackie Martin, and his 3 siblings Dianne Boberg (Bob), David Martin (Michelle and Bill's nieces Nikki and Clairissa), and Jessica Martin (Heather).

One of Bill's great loves was music, and he was a talented drummer up until the last few years of his life. He made his first drum set at age 12 out of household pots and pans. He played in bands around Monroe for 4 decades including R.A.M., Split Rail, and F.O.G. He recorded countless songs with Bob Sweet and his brother David.

Bill also enjoyed reading about history and watching history documentaries. Bill worked primarily as a drummer in area bands but also worked for many years as a driver for area auto auction houses.

Bill was a big man with a healthy appetite and could be counted on to show up at family gatherings with a casserole from Jackie in hand. He brought his mother chocolate- covered cherries each Christmas. At those gatherings, Bill enjoyed sharing stories of his rock and roll days in the 70's and 80's.

Prior to residing at an Allen Park nursing facility at the end of his life, Bill lived in recent years at Woodcraft Square Senior Apartments. He made new acquaintances there and was warmly welcomed by staff. The family would like to recognize Ms. Debbie Roberts and Ms. E. Nolff for their kindness towards Bill in procuring stable housing.

A public visitation and funeral for Bill will be on Monday, April 10th, 2023 at Rupp Funeral Home in Monroe, Michigan from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A funeral service will start at 1:00 pm. Officiating is Rev. Larry Detruf. Interment will be at Roselawn Cemetery in LaSalle, Michigan. The funeral may be viewed on the Rupp Funeral Home facebook site after the service.

Memorial contributions in Bill's name may be made to the American Cancer Society, to the Humane Society, or to the charity of donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com