James Craig “Swede” Martin, 71, of New London, passed away at home on April 30, 2022. Born January 5, 1951, in Fort Madison, he was the son of Merlin and Louise Boecker Martin. He married Jeanette Brown on January 27, 1971 in Kahoka, Missouri and she died November 27, 1992. He then married Jean Hill and they later divorced. He attended Mount Pleasant schools and worked in the construction field. He was a hard worker, who also enjoyed fishing, hunting, cooking, NASCAR and spending time with his children, grandchildren and family.
Survivors include his sons, Eric (Luann) and Jared (Missy) both of New London; grandchildren, Jaci Zippe, Kyler, Brady, Rylan, Brianna and Easton Martin and Zoe and Zane Long, step-grandchildren, Lexie Little and Boden Glaha; great grandchildren, JoJo and Cub Zippe; sisters, Gloria (Bob) Wagaman of Michigan, Yvonne (Nathan) Kerr of Morning Sun, brothers in law, Donny Messer of Washington and Doyle Dunn of Mount Pleasant. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two sisters, Patty Dunn and Linda Messer, and two brothers, Johnny and Tommy Martin.
Swede donated his body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program and there will be no formal services at Elliott Chapel, New London. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.