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Michael "Mike" Martin, 60, passed away on August 1, 2026, following a long-term illness.
Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Mike lived life on his own terms. Mike worked over 30 years in pharmaceutical sales with many companies, Bayer, Kyowa-Kirin, Merck, and Schering-Plough. He was a one-of-a-kind man whose quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and unforgettable personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. If Mike was part of your life, you quickly learned two things: you needed a good sense of humor and a thick skin. His playful banter was legendary, and he always had something to say. Just when you thought you had the last word, Mike would have everyone laughing in the blink of an eye.
Mike also had a very passionate heart for helping people in need. He was always willing to step in, give what he could, and support others without hesitation. Though he was known for his humor and laughter, Mike was also deeply emotional and sensitive. He felt things deeply and was never afraid to show it-he could cry at the drop of a dime, whether it was from joy, compassion, or a touching moment that moved him.
Mike loved the Los Angeles Dodgers, his Bassett hounds, loud music, great food, garage sales, and flea markets. He was also an avid collector of sports memorabilia and treasured his extensive baseball card collection. He enjoyed the thrill of finding that next great collectible and loved sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Mike had an incredible palate and could taste almost any dish and tell you exactly what ingredient it was missing or what made it special. He also had a special love for Charlotte, North Carolina, a place that held many cherished memories for him.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, Michael "Mike" Martin Sr. of Parkersburg, West Virginia.
Above all, Mike loved his family. He is survived by his four children: Tyler Martin, Meredith Martin, Tristan Martin, and Michael Dixon Martin III, currently serving in the United States Coast Guard and stationed in Singapore. He is also survived by his devoted mother, Carolyn Martin; his sister, Melissa Sears-Welton of Porter, Texas; his cousin, Michelle Walker Willoughby of Vienna, West Virginia; and Carol Riel, who was a faithful and loving companion through the final years of his life. Carol traveled with Mike, accompanied him to countless doctor's appointments, and lovingly stood beside him throughout his medical journey. Her unwavering care, compassion, and friendship were a tremendous blessing to Mike and to those who loved him.
Mike leaves behind a space that simply cannot be filled. There was only one Mike Martin. His laughter, his stories, his teasing, and the joy he brought to those around him will be remembered for years to come. While our hearts feel a little emptier without him, we find comfort in the countless memories that continue to make us smile.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2:00 p.m. at the Leavitt Family Center at 620 Avery Street, Parkersburg, WV.
In keeping with Mike's generous spirit, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Dream Foundation at https://www.dreamfoundation.org/-a tribute Mike would have appreciated.
His family asks that whenever you think of Mike, you share a great meal, cheer on the Dodgers, turn up your favorite music, wander through a garage sale or flea market, admire a piece of sports memorabilia, and remember the man who never met a stranger, never missed an opportunity for a witty comeback, and always found a way to make people laugh.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com.