GREENWOOD
Nelson E. Martin, 77, of Greenwood, passed away on Feb. 18, 2023. He was born on Nov. 2, 1945, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Rowland and Nancy (Nelson) Martin.
Nelson graduated from Indiana University in 1967, earning a degree in economics. Upon graduation he joined the United States Air Force, earned the rank of captain and worked on a top secret program supporting the SR-71 spy plane. After leaving the military in 1971, he transferred his leadership skills to a successful 33-year career at Allison Transmission and Electronic Data Systems, where he held several management positions. He was respected and beloved by all those who worked under his leadership. After retirement, Nelson immersed himself in volunteer work, most notably at Franciscan St. Francis Hospital for 16 years. He spent countless hours at the Cancer Center and as acting treasurer of the Franciscan Auxiliary.
In 1973, Nelson was married to his wife of almost 50 years, Janet. Together they raised their three children in the Center Grove community. One of Nelson’s greatest joys was supporting his children in their school activities from athletics to marching band and everything in between. He volunteered as head coach of several baseball, basketball and softball teams; served as president of the Center Grove Girls Basketball League; and was a board member of The Center Grove Athletic Booster Club.
Later in life, Nelson enjoyed traveling with Janet, playing golf and spending time with family and friends. He was especially close to his brother, Neal, and enjoyed either celebrating or venting about IU sports and the Indianapolis Colts. To his friends and family, he will be remembered as a kind and generous man who valued honor and character. More than anything else, he adored spending time with his five grandchildren and watching them grow. Just as he did with his children, he made every effort to attend concerts, games and other notable events in his grandchildren’s lives.
Nelson is survived by his wife, Janet (Swartz) Martin; sons Scott (Laura) and John (Andrea); daughter Jenny (Lauren); grandchildren Nate, Kevin, Kaia, Lennox, and Emery Martin; and brother Neal (Linda).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rowland and Nancy Martin; and sister Patsy Martin.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023 from 5:00-8:00pm at G.H. Herrmann Funeral Home at The Gardens of Olive Branch, 1605 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Friday at 3:00pm at Saints Francis &Clare Catholic Church, 5901 Olive Branch Road, Greenwood, IN with military honors to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Elizabeth Coleman Pregnancy and Adoption Services, 3388 Founders Road, Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46268.
Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family at www.ghherrmann.com
