David L. Martin

David L. Martin Founder Mister Fish ""Every Nibble""A Good Bite!"" David Lee Martin, age 82, passed away September 6, 2015, at Haley""s Cove Community Living Center at James A. Haley Veterans"" Hospital in Tampa, where he resided for the past 22 years. He was born August 21, 1933, in Johnston City, Illinois, to David and Beulah Martin. David served proudly as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps from June 1, 1953, until August 1, 1956, specializing in Field Artillery and earning medals for National Defense Service, United Nations Service, Korean Service, and Good Conduct. In 1958, David married Geneva June Maze in Johnston City, IL. The couple had three children before moving to Lakeland, FL, where their fourth child was born, and where they established ""The Original Mister Fish Restaurant"" in 1968. Their family continues to own and operate the restaurant, which is still thriving today. David always had a smile on his face, and was loved by many. He had a strong work ethic and a resilient attitude. His favorite phrases included, ""Everything is beautiful,"" ""Big Bucks,"" and ""Think Fish."" He was a big sports fan, and loved football (especially the Bucs), boxing, and baseball. David also enjoyed playing bingo. David was preceded in death by his loving wife, Geneva J. Martin, in 2011, his sister, Virginia Martin, and his brother Donald Martin. He is survived by his children Rhonda Hadaway, Kimberly Martin, David Lee Martin II, and Michele Christman (Brian); grandchildren Destinee Martin Dunn, Cody Marshall; and one great-grandson, Christain Dunn. Visitation will be from 5:00 " 6:30 p.m., with a memorial service at 6:30 p.m., on Tuesday, September 22, 2015, in the Tribute Center at Heath Funeral Chapel, 328 S. Ingraham Ave., Lakeland. Inurnment with military honors will be at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida, on Wednesday, September 23, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. Service: 09/22/2015 Heath Funeral Chapel - Tribute Center 328 South Ingraham Ave., Lakeland, Florida 33801 Heath Funeral Chapel - Tribute Center Visitation: 09/22/2015 Heath Funeral Chapel - Tribute Center