Samuel M. Martin

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Samuel M. Martin, known to many as “Zeke,” Samuel Martin Martin, and affectionately "Mr. Mint" for his candy cane striped pajamas. He was taken to Heaven on October 15, 2024, at the age of 73.

Samuel was the loving husband of 52 years to his best friend and soulmate, Kathleen J. Hinerdeer Martin. He was a devoted father to five daughters, a grandfather, a great grandfather, a father-in law, an uncle, a brother, an incredible friend and a co-worker who left a lasting impression on all who worked with him. The title he held most dear was that of "Grandfather," a role he embraced with love and pride, and “Great Grandfather” that he earned just two short years ago.

Samuel had worked many years as a machinist at Berk-Tek. He attended LCBC Ephrata Campus.

Surviving besides his wife are his five daughters, Tammy wife of Linford Ringler of New Holland, Sherry wife of Korey Swope of Denver, Tiffany wife of William Royer of Willow Street, Kimberly wife of Casey Smith of Stevens and Joni wife of Randy Oliveras, Jr., of Brownstown, seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, two brothers, Lloyd husband of Esther Martin of Broad Top, Clyde husband of Shirley Martin of East Earl, two sisters, Miriam wife of Marvin Weaver of Blue Ball, Mary Wenger of New Holland and a wide circle of friends and family who will carry on his legacy of love, fun and laughter. He was preceded in death by a sister, Vera Martin.

Samuel had a warmth about him that was impossible to miss. His kind eyes and ever-present smile made everyone feel like they had known him forever. Whether he had just met you or had known you for years, he treated everyone like an old friend, often greeting them with a hug that could brighten even the darkest day.

He was a man of many passions. From motorcycles to cars, he loved the thrill of adventure. He also had an immense love for his family and a passion for good food. His heart was big, his soul full of compassion and he always put others before himself.

As daughters, we remember him always being there at bedtime and saying prayers, and never being too busy to play with us or take us on bike rides. He lifted us up with his many compliments and showed us the type of man we all deserved to have in our lives. He was our protector, our role model and our best friend. While his love and guidance shaped us, he was also a mischievous spirit with a heart of gold, always ready for fun and expressing his silly side.

Samuel loved to tell people about his five daughters, proudly bragging about each of us. We will miss his playful antics, his Dutchy accent, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He was the most amazing Dad—and God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave him to us as a father.

His passion for motorcycle rides included laugher, a sense of adventure and with no doubt popping wheelies; whether he was riding solo, with his wife, a daughter or a friend. He even did a wheelie with his concrete cement mixer truck when he worked at New Holland Concrete. Samuel was always ready to stop and say hello to old friends around New Holland, and he never missed an opportunity to lend a helping hand when someone was in need.

Samuel's love for movies ran deep. His favorite actors were Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, and Jack Nicholson, while his favorite songs included House of the Rising Sun, Unchained Melody, and When a Man Loves a Woman—with a special place in his heart for Wooly Bully on karaoke nights.

Both Sam and Kathy always said it was love at first sight the day they met, and for all of us that love grew deeper every day. Sam’s generosity and kind spirit were undeniable. He was the type of friend who would drop everything to help and he expected nothing in return. If you needed a laugh, he was there, or if you needed prayer, he made time for that, too. He was truly a man of character, someone whose love and kindness touched everyone who knew him.

Sam was a child at heart, and his playful nature and love for life will be deeply missed. He was our rock, our role model, and our best friend, and his passing leaves a space in our hearts that can never be filled. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the countless memories we hold dear.

A Visitation and Drop-In will be held on Wednesday, October 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Groff-High-Eckenroth Funeral Home in New Holland. Services and interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Please omit all flowers. If desired, contributions in his memory may be made to The American Heart Association.

We love you, Sam. We will continue to brag about how amazing you were. God truly intended you to be a “Girl Dad," and you exceeded our expectations in every way. Rest in peace, our dear Daddy—you will always be in our hearts.