It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Cletus Martin, age 78, of Casco, WI. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Jim passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, peacefully at home with his family he cherished so deeply by his side.
Jim was born in Namur, WI, on November 5, 1947, to the late Steven and Ginny (Gilson) Martin. He graduated from Southern Door High School. On June 24, 1967, Jim married Diane Willems at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Algoma. Jim worked as a licensed cheesemaker for twelve years before beginning a thirty-year career at Fort Howard Paper Mill. A hardworking man who was always willing to lend a helping hand, Jim kept busy but never hesitated to make time for others. He enjoyed tinkering with projects in his shed and taking leisurely rides on his lawnmower. Above all, family was what mattered most to Jim. He especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren, whether taking them fishing or making a stop at the gas station afterward for hot dogs. It was those simple moments together that brought him some of his greatest joy.
Jim is survived by his wife Diane; their children, Paula (David) Routhieaux, Bob (fiancé Tanya) Martin, Peggy Palazzo, and Jeremy Martin; grandchildren, Jon (Tory) Routhieaux, Jesse Routhieaux, Kaylee Routhieaux, Derek (Mariah) Martin, Alek (special friend Abbie) Martin, Dominik Martin, Jordan (Megan) Massart, Cassidy (Heather) Massart, Hannah (fiancé Ron) Sheehan, Vincent (fiancé Marlena) Belongie, Dylen (special friend Adriana) Martin; brothers, Alvin (Dorothy) Martin, Green Bay; Jule (Grier) Willems, Port Washington; Jim (Wendy) Willem, Green Bay; sisters, Judy Heuer-Weston, TX; Dora (John) Meyer, Green Bay; Suzy Willems Wians, Green Bay; nineteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Ginny; great grand child (infant) Jonny Routhieaux; brothers, Harold Collins, Carl Collins, Elmer Willems, Norbert Willems, Bernie Willems, Darrel Willems, Leonard Willems Jr.; sisters Bernice Krohn, and Delores Willems.
A visitation will take place at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Lincoln, on Monday, November 2, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the Martin Family. Online condolences can be shared at KinnardFCS.com. Special thanks to Unity Hospice and especially Ashley, you gave us comfort in the choices we needed to be comforted in! Thank you!
