Martin Marc DeBow
Martin (Marty) Marc DeBow, age 66, passed away from this life into the arms of Jesus at home surrounded by his loving family in Eaton Rapids, MI, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born to Ann and John DeBow in Lansing MI, Marty dedicated his life to faith, family and community.
For 36 years, Marty served as a beloved pastor in five parishes, touching countless lives with his compassion and wisdom. His commitment to his congregation was unwavering, and he found great joy in his ministry. He had a heart for youth and spent many hours with kids running work camps and programs for young people. While serving his various churches Marty also loved being a part of his community and served in many capacities, including coaching his kids in t-ball, football and basketball. He also served on the Eaton Rapids Hospital Board as well as many community service organizations throughout the years.
Outside of his pastoral duties, Marty cherished and prioritized his precious family, spending time with Cindy, the kids and grandkids at his favorite retreat, the family cottage on “Happy Loon Lake.” He loved taking the family fishing, tubing, making bonfires and cooking up “Papa’s Pancakes.” He also had a great love for the Au Sable River and enjoyed fishing for steelhead there with friends. Marty was an avid sports fan with a deep love for Michigan State as an alumni. Many a Saturday he could be found with family and friends cheering on the Spartans. Fishing, basketball, football, and deer hunting were activities that Marty participated in throughout his life.
Marty will be sorely missed for his warmth and kindness, his great sense of humor and his wonderful ability to make anyone feel like a friend.
Marty is survived by his loving wife, Cindy, his children Kattie (Ryan) and Matt (Katie), as well as his cherished grandchildren Mila, Grayson, Quinton, Cameron, and Rosie. He also leaves behind his mother, Ann DeBow, and sisters, Julie Doolittle, Debbie Kline, and Missy Howey. His legacy of love and kindness will live on through them.
A visitation will be held at Skinner’s Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 10 from 5-8 p.m. The celebration of Marty’s life will be held on Thursday, July 11 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, with a luncheon immediately to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any of the following organizations: The Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund (earmarked for the Eaton Rapids High School Hunting & Fishing Club), or the First United Methodist Church – Youth and Family Ministries Programming.