Allen Dale Martin

Allen Dale Martin 93 of Rockford passed away Saturday September 21, 2013 in Stephenson Nursing Center. He was born February 25, 1920 in Lake Preston, SD, the son of June William and Sarah Josephine Martin. He came to Rockford in 1937. He married Ethel Marlene Wood in Rockford on July 3, 1945. She predeceased him in 2000. He worked for Wisconsin Black and Decker for 15 years and Barber Coleman for 17 years, retiring in 1981. Allen served in the Marines during WWII. Member of St James Church. He volunteered at Rockford memorial Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and the Rockford Y Men's Club. He loved to walk on the bike path. He was a collector, from watches to picture frames, coins and art. He also was a wonderful woodworker.
Survivors include his son Robert Allen (Lorraine) Martin of Machesney Park. Grandchildren, Kevin (Lori Vanderkolk) Coppernoll of Rockford. Great grandchildren, James and Devan Swinney. Lots of nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents. Wife Ethel in 2000. Four brothers, Charlie, John, Mayo and Lawrence. Sisters, Carrie, Mary, Anna, Ruth, Ella and Maxine.
Mass of Christian Burial at 11am Friday September 27, 2013 in St James Catholic Church, Rockford. Burial in Burritt Township Cemetery. Visitation from 5pm until 7pm Thursday September 26 in Fitzgerald Funeral home 3910 N. Rockton Ave. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com