Gary Glenn Martin, 78, of San Leon, TX, passed away on Friday, July 22, 2022. Born in Martinez, California, to Leo Albert Martin and Daisy Mae Christlieb, Gary grew up in Kansas where he graduated high school and received his Bachelor of Science in Education and Psychology from the Kansas State Teacher’s College (now Emporia State University). Although he started in the heartland of America, he was always a Texas cowboy in his heart.
Gary enlisted in the army following college graduation, and was a proud Vietnam Veteran. Gary was a decorated member of the Bobcats, 5th Infantry Chapter, 25th Infantry Division. Gary distinguished himself in his military service and was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Service Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Presidential Unit Citation, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with the Palm as well as other awards. Gary was also a sharpshooter with the Rifle M-16. Gary was honorably discharged in 1973 as a Captain and then joined the Army Reserves where he achieved the rank of Major by 1980.
Gary continued to give back and served in the Healthcare industry. He received his Masters of Education in Guidance & Counseling from Lamar University in 1979. Gary then went on to obtain his Nursing Home Administrator’s License.
Gary was a huge John Wayne fan and enjoyed early country music and dancing. He also enjoyed traveling and watching the Cowboys games on Sundays.
Gary is predeceased by his parents and his wife Lisa Boughton. Gary is survived by his brother Donald Dean Martin of Texas City, TX, his children: Melinda and her husband Jed Newsom of Galveston, TX, and Michael and his wife Jennifer Martin of The Woodlands, TX; his stepson James and his wife Marilyn of Kountze, TX, and 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Gary will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with military honors at a later date.