David Martin

David J. Martin, age 68, of Fairview, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 at UPMC Hamot. He was born in Erie on February 27, 1948, son of the late James P. and Elsie Brandenburg Martin. Dave graduated from the Tech Memorial High School where he studied Auto Mechanics. He served in the U. S. Coast Guard, being stationed at Governor’s Island in New York City and aboard the USCGC Gallatin. He was a Chief Master Mechanic for the City of Erie Fire Department until his retirement. In addition, Dave’s career included working as a mechanic for Emergycare Ambulance and volunteering his time to help many Volunteer Fire Departments maintain their equipment. After retirement Dave went on to work for his son at Great Lakes Excavating where he was an indispensable member of the team. Dave not only went above and beyond the duties listed within his job description, being the jokester that he was, he often times provided comedic relief at work as well. Dave was known to put other’s needs before his own always willing to lend a hand. He enjoyed spending summers at his camp and “making rounds” in his golf cart. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather to six grandchildren all of whom he was especially proud. He enjoyed attending their activities and sharing in their accomplishments. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister Wendy Graff. He is survived by his wife Vanessa Votaw Martin, a son James Martin (Jennifer); daughters Carol Kulesza (Randy) and Christin Martin (Darrell); grandchildren Randy Kulesza III (Natali), Emily Kulesza, Camryn Ashley, Austin Cruz, Abby Martin and Zachary Martin. He is further survived by a sister Heidi Utley and her husband Dr. Jack Utley; a brother-in-law Joel Graff; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends. Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 West 26th Street (at Powell Ave.) on Wednesday from 4:00 pm until the time of the service there at 7:00 pm.

Memorials may be made to the Fairview Fire Department 7190 West Ridge Road Fairview, PA 16415.