Russell R. Martin, 78, of Dunbar, peacefully passed at home surrounded by his family after a long illness, on January, 13, 2015.

He was a Veteran who proudly served in the US Navy on the USS Canberra. He was retired from the WV Dept. of Highways.

Russell was known as a gentle spirit by all that knew him. He greatly loved his family and friends. He always had a smile on his face and a secret handshake for his grandchildren. He enjoyed camping, fishing, boating, pig roasts, cruising, impromptu cook outs, and telling stories about the past, especially "the wreck of 58." His cartoon doodles on the newspaper, napkins or any scrap of paper he can find will be greatly missed. Russell's outlook on life can best be described by a quote from one of his favorite movies, "You see, George, you've really had a wonderful life!"

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Inez Martin; brothers, Robert, Thomas and Elliott Martin; and grandchildren, Sandra and Richard Burch.

Russell is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Susan Martin; sons, Russell Martin Jr. and Joseph Martin; daughters, Debbie Burch, Susie Riggs, and Juliet Guberman; 12 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; brothers, Norman, Larry Abe, and Harold Martin; sisters, Deloris Keeling, Kate Allan, Ruthie Payne, Debbie McVay, and Tunie White and all their respective spouses.

The family of Russell Martin would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Jeffrey Addison, M.D. for his compassionate care over the years.

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, January 16, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar with the Reverend Doyle D. Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Grandview Memorial Park.

Family and friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, January 15 at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.