Robert Joseph “Flipper” Martin, 74, of Morton, formerly of Hopedale, passed away Sunday, March 9, 2025 at his home.

He was born March 14, 1950 in Bloomington to Vernon J. and Evelyn G. Unsicker Martin.

Surviving are his children, Erika L. (Tom) Fairburn and Melissa Jo Hill, both of Hopedale;10 grandchildren, Madison Jo (Tanner) Springer, Shelby P. (Wyatt) Crump, Payton R. Wille, Kami S. Siltman, Gannon J. Wille, Lyndsey K. Fairburn, Keaton J. Wille, Robert D. Fairburn, Kenzie R. Fairburn, and Daxton G. Proctor; three great grandchildren, Tyson D. Wille-Sheppelman, Simon R. Springer, and Evelyn Jo Springer; one great granddaughter on the way; Siblings, Brad (Carla) Martin of Hopedale, Pam (Jerry) Storm of Peoria, Tammie (Bob) Stroud of Armington, and Melanie (Tom) Brandt of Oneida; 11 nieces and nephews; 14 great nieces and nephews; and one great nephew on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Rob graduated from Hopedale High School and Eastern Illinois University.

He was currently working for We Care Inc. in Morton. He absolutely loved working there and was passionate about the people he worked with and for. He was very thankful for the relationships built while working there.

He was a member of the Hopedale Lion’s Club and a former member of Hopedale Fire Department.

Rob lived a life full of love and kindness, always putting family first. His family was everything to him. He didn’t know a stranger; everyone that knew him loved him. He loved to brag about his whole family and made sure everyone knew how proud he was of them. He traveled miles upon miles, spent hours upon hours at any and all events his family participated in. His love and support for his family was unmatched and will never be replaced.

His funeral will be at 4:00 pm Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Hopedale Mennonite Church in Hopedale.  Pastor Roger Springer will officiate.  Visitation will be from 1 to 3:45 pm Sunday, also at the church.  A graveside service will be at 11:00 am Monday, March 17 at Mennonite Cemetery in Hopedale.  Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont is handling the arrangements.

Memorials may be made to We Care or Olympia Athletics.