W. Jude Martin

Wilbur Jude Martin, 86, of Beaver Island, Michigan, passed away peacefully in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Jude was born on March 21, 1938, on Beaver Island, Michigan the son of Wilbur James and Sarah Agatha (Gallagher) Martin. Known for his remarkable work ethic, he enjoyed working in construction in the Grand Rapids area most of his life. He retired to Beaver Island, where he worked part-time in the Maritime Museum.

As a young man, Jude served honorably in the Army. Afterward, he earned his builder's license and began crafting homes and apartment buildings, later specializing in custom garages. Throughout his career, he mentored many men in the construction trade—including his son, nephews, and young men he knew—many of whom went on to successful careers themselves.

In his retirement years, Jude treasured his time with friends and family who visited him and Dena on the island. He deeply loved Beaver Island and was famous for his knowledge of its history and his eventful island tours.

It is difficult to summarize a life as full of adventure as Jude's. He was like a walking reality TV show, and either he'd tell you about an episode in his life or he was about to guide you as a participant in one. All who knew his generous, loving, feisty spirit now feel a profound loss of such a unique individual. Jude, may heaven greet you with Céad Míle Fáilte.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Dena; his children, Tracie Nester, Thomas (Heather), and Kelly (Rich) Bennema, and their mother, Dee Martin; his stepchildren, Jill (Dave) York, Thomas,  Jennifer, and Tim VanAntwerp; grandchildren, Adam, Aaron, Alex, and Zebulun (Tracie's children); Megan, Elle, Paige, Nicholas, and Rumer(Heather) (Thomas's children); Josh, Nathan, and Faith (Kelly's children); 18 great-grandchildren;  sister, Ilene Zimmerman; step-grandchildren, Jessica, Eddie, Cassie, Brandon, Sarah, Nate, Sybelle, Alex, Brahm, Sierra, and Jacob. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Wilbur James Martin, William James Martin, and Bernard Martin; sisters, Mary Margaret Long, Charlotte McDonough, and Catherine Kohn; step-daughter, Jeannie Huyge.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 11:00 am Thursday, March 6 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 423 First St. NW Grand Rapids, with visitation at 10:00 am. Rev. Fr. Ronald Hutchinson, Celebrant. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, Beaver Island, MI on May 17. Memorial contributions in Jude’s name may be made to the Beaver Island Maritime Museum and Beaver Island Community School. Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs, MI.