Donald Martin Jr. Obituary

Donald Lee Martin, Jr., 80, of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

Born on January 10, 1945, in Flint, Michigan, Donald lived a life marked by love, dedication, and service to others.

On May 26, 1995, Donald married the love of his life, Deborah Celmer Borke, in Michigan. Together, they shared 30 wonderful years filled with devotion, laughter, and family. Donald was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from time spent with those he loved most.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Martin of Port Saint Lucie, Florida; his children, Donald L. Martin III and wife Kimberly of Michigan, LeeAnne Martin-Lee and husband Bryan of Florida, Shana Borke Matlock and husband Wayne of Texas, Kimberly Borke Vasquez and husband Joe of Illinois, and Frank Borke of Michigan. He also leaves behind his brother Franklin Roat of Michigan, his sister Anna Mae Taggert of Michigan, 11 cherished grandchildren, and 14 adored great-grandchildren, who were the apple of his eye. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Donald L. Martin of Michigan and Ada Ruth Heavlin Martin Roat of Ohio.

Donald attended Northern High School in Flint, Michigan, earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, and went on to receive his Master’s degree from Central Michigan University. He dedicated 30 years of his career to AC Spark Plug/Delco in Flint, Michigan, where he was a valued colleague and mentor.

A proud Mason and Shriner, Donald was a member of Flint Lodge #23, a life member of Grand Rapids Lodge #34, a Scottish Rite Mason, and an active member of Shriners International at the Elf Khurafeh, Moslem, and Al Amin Temples. He cherished the brotherhood, fellowship, and philanthropy of these organizations, embodying their values throughout his life.

Services will be held at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint, Michigan 48507. Visitation will take place on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM, followed by a graveside service at 3:00 PM at Flint Memorial Park, 9506 N Dort Highway, Mount Morris, Michigan 48458.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Donald’s name to Treasure Coast Hospice or to Shriners Hospitals for Children, causes that reflect the spirit of service and generosity that defined Donald’s life.

Donald will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his commitment to community, and his enduring legacy of kindness, service, and faith.