Grady Leon Martin

Grady Leon Martin, born September 15, 1928 in Kokomo, Indiana to Grady and Agnes Martin, passed away on October 5, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana at the age of 91 leaving behind his son, Grady Michael Martin, and daughter, Michelle Marie Martin, his grandchildren, Nicholas Corne and Sky Martin, as well as countless friends whom he considered family. 

Grady grew up close to Highland Park where he spent his childhood exploring with friends and ice skating when the pond froze.  Grady attended Kokomo High School and graduated in 1946.  Grady then enlisted in the U.S. Army serving in the Korean War and was a proud veteran and member of the Elks 190. 

Grady returned to Kokomo where he opened Sycamore Food Shop serving the community not only with fresh produce, meats and prepared food but many first jobs to Kokomo youth until he retired in 1991 after 38 years.  Never being able to sit around, Grady then went on to a second career at Lowe's where he became known to Kokomo's children as Grandpa Grady for the numerous children's workshops that he ran.  Throughout his life Grady loved to snow ski, tend to his children's horses, ice skate, garden, fish, cook and travel but most of all he loved to spend time with his family. 

Grady never met a stranger without a smile and kindness and truly made more friends during his days then can be counted as a result.  Even though he was 91, Grady kept his days full of friends and activity starting with breakfast each morning with various friends, attending church, mowing his lawn, tending his garden, playing Cribbage, driving friends to the movies and appointments and enjoying dinner at various local restaurants.  Grady will be missed by so many but his memory will live on by the kindness and joy that he spread everywhere he went. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, October 12, 2019, at First Church of the Nazarene, 2734 S. Washington Street, Kokomo, with Pastor Shane Guldi officiating, with military honors provided by the United States Army and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10:00 am until time of service on Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Grady’s memory to First Church of the Nazarene. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.  Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.  

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