Martin E. Davis age 79, a lifelong resident of Big Rapids, passed away Monday, September 9, 2013 at Spectrum Health - Reed City Campus. He was born October 4, 1933 on the family farm in Green Township, Mecosta County, the son of Vernon and Virginia (Cornell) Davis. When Martin was born he was baptized Lutheran. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army after serving during the Korean War. Martin married Josephine Ottobre on June 9, 1956 at the St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids. Together they raised their family in Big Rapids on the family farm where Martin was born. He was employed by Ferris State University for 28 years working in vehicle maintenance until he retired. Martin enjoyed making maple syrup, farming and fixing antique tractors. He was a member of the Big Rapids Greasy Fingers 2-Cylinder Tractor Club. In 2010 the club drove the Mackinaw Bridge Antique Tractor Crossing. Martin was also a member of the VFW Post #4102 in Big Rapids and the Centennial Farm Association. Martin loved spending time with his family and grandchildren; he will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Josephine Davis of Big Rapids; two sons, Martin Jr. (Wendy) Davis of Hersey and Raymond "John" Davis of Big Rapids; three daughters, Mary Myers, Lisa Davis and Margaret "Peggy" Davis, all of Big Rapids; 30 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and three on the way; a step-sister, Julia Buys of Muskegon; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Jim Davis; daughter, Kristina Davis; son-in-law, Fred Myers; sister, Oweda Barnhardt; two brothers, Vern Davis Jr. and Jesse E. Davis; a step-brother, George Hoffman; and his parents. Funeral services will take place 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2013 at the Daggett- Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor Ed Milam officiating. The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 12th at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Martin's name to the Spectrum Health Foundation "" Reed City; Note: Pallative Care Suite, 300 North Patterson Avenue, Reed City, Michigan, 49677.