Darnielle "Shike" Martin Obituary (1935

Darnielle Wherry "Shike" Martin, 81, of Bonaparte died peacefully at home surrounded by his family Saturday, December 3, 2016. He was born in Mount Sterling, Iowa on May 6, 1935 to Wherry and Maymie (McCarty) Martin and married Vivian Irene (Hackard) Neal on May 1, 1960 in Kahoka, Missouri. Shike graduated from Farmington High School, then joined the United States Army. He graduated from the U.S. Army Aviation School and worked as an airplane mechanic. Following that, he served in the Army Reserves. He then worked for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in Shimek State Forest, retiring with 35 years of service. He and Vivian also ran a shoe and leather repair shop together for many years. He loved animals and the outdoors. He also coached a men's fast-pitch softball team for many years. He didn't know a stranger and loved to chat. He is survived by two daughters Patricia (Frank) Johnson of Bonaparte, and Carol (Allen) Gunn of Bonaparte; three grandchildren Casey Johnson, Alison (Ryan) Weidemann, and Erica (Elliott) Shriver; and three great grandchildren Aurora Weidemann, Molly and Tommy Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Laurece Ward, and his wife Vivian. A graveside service will be held for family and closest friends Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Thompson Cemetery near Bonaparte. Longtime friend Barry Smith will speak at the service. Memorial contributions can be made to HCI Hospice Care Services of Mt Pleasant, Iowa or to the Friends of Shimek State Forest in Farmington, Iowa and can be sent to Carol Gunn @ P.O. Box 83, Bonaparte, Iowa 52620. Pedrick Funeral Home, Keosauqua is handling the arrangements.