Richard C. Martin 1975-2021

Until November 2020, he resided at Briarfield at Ashley Circle, with his parents being there daily until the coronavirus pandemic. They devoted themselves in caring for him as much as possible.

Despite being able to talk, he tried to communicate with gestures. His smiles and laughing brought much happiness to all.

He was of the Lutheran faith.

Rich was born to Richard and Linda Stefanick Martin on Feb. 10, 1975. A 1993 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School and the MCJVS for building, remodeling and maintenance, he excelled in his work. In his senior year at the MCJVS, he began working for John Knepp Construction and did so until the day prior to his accident in July 1998. He also worked for McCormick’s Vac’n Sew as a tech, in Boardman, and for J.L. Treharn — makers of fine reproduction furniture in Youngstown.

From a young age, he was very active, loving and fixing anything he could, especially if it had a motor on it. He rode motorcycles, ATVs, and from age 17 to 21, totally rebuilt his 1980 Malibu. He was very creative and loved Legos and Hot Wheels cars. Rich was very respectful and always had a smile on his face, and was a very hard worker.

Rich will be sadly missed and leaves to cherish his memories, his parents; his niece, McClintock (Jared) Scott; his nephew, Clay Ramseyer; his great-niece, Brylee Scott; his aunts, Karen Johnson of Annandale, Va., Carolee (Jerry) Treharn of Austintown, Barbara Martin of Weathersfield and Margaret Ann (Keith) Hood of North Carolina; many great cousins; and two dear, devoted friends, Maria Morales and Joe Cecil.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents, John and Matilda Stefanick, Roy and Winona Martin, and Wilma Martin; his sister, Lisa Martin; his aunt, Sara Gerlach; his aunt, Joan; his uncle, Rick; and his niece, Erika Sheridan.

Many thanks go out to the staff at Briarfield at Ashley Circle and Austinwoods for their loving care and for the many doctors that have cared for Rich over the years.

Family and friends may visit 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 8, 2021, at Lane Family Funeral Homes-Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave., Austintown, followed by a family service at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, conducted by the Rev. Richard Kidd. All guests are required to wear a mask and honor the six-foot rule. Please exit the funeral home and do not linger after paying respects to the family.

Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences. The service will be livestreamed on Rich’s tribute wall at lanefuneralhomes.com.

(special notice)