Charles R. Martin

Charles R. Martin, of Sheraden, passed away Wednesday January 8, 2014 at the age of 61. He was proceeded in death by his father Richard Martin and father-in-law Daniel O'Hara. He is survived by his mother Doris B. Martin, his loving wife of 35 years Colleen O. Martin, his daughter Cassandra Martin, his sister Carol Chizik and brother-in-law Jack Chizik, their daughters Jennifer Carvajal and Stephanie Chizik, his sister Stacey Skradski and brother-in-law Mark Skradski, their son Benjamin Skradski, his brother-in-law Daniel O'Hara and his wife Katherine O'Hara, their children Daniel J. O'Hara, Shawn O'Hara, Heather O'Hara, and his mother-in-law Alberta O'Hara. His four legged friends will also miss him: Gruff, Calli, Luca and Lexi. The life long Pittsburgh native graduated from Langley High School in 1970, immediately afterwards he enlisted in the United States Armed Forces, where he served in the special forces of the airborne division. He successfully completing hundreds of jumps and tested prototype parachutes. After the service, his love of God and the outdoors brought him to Jumonville Christian Camp in the Laurel Highlands of South Western Pennsylvania. He successfully created the first Adventure Camp in the United States, alongside his lifelong friend Larry Beatty. The program encompassed his passion for rock climbing, kayaking, high ropes courses and campfires while bringing young adults closer to developing their relationships with God. The pioneering program was mimicked across the state and eventually across the country, but to everyone that knew him he was affectionately known as "Smokey" for his love of campfires. He also served on the Jumonville Board of Directors. Charlie was also known to be a square dance caller. He would call for many of the Jumonville Camp weeks. In the winters, he would retreat to 7 Springs Mountain Resort where he was a well-respected Certified Level II PSIA ski instructor, who preferred skiing moguls until his last time on the snow. His teaching method for beginners to advanced students will live on beyond his years as 1,2,3; "Number one; Look down the hill. Number two; Keep your hands in front of you. Number three; Turn both feet." His enthusiasm for teaching brought joy to many people who never even knew they had a love for the sport. His leadership translated into his businesses, which included the family HVAC and Roofing Company James W. Martin & Sons he ran since 1980, but the self-described "adrenaline junkie" decided to add Tree Service to the mix as a personal touch. The first time his future wife laid eyes on him he was cutting a tree just outside a classroom at Langley High School. "He looked like a spider hanging from that tree," Colleen recalls, yet little did she snow he would find his way to her heart and the couple would enjoy 35 happily married years together. As a community servant, he was elected multiple times as President of the Pittsburgh Executives Association, an influential member since April 7, 1982. He was on their Board of Directors for many years. Charlie also served as President of the local chapter of Kiwanis and as a member for many years. His service also included fondly singing for the children's ministry on Sundays at Orchard Hill Church. He could silence a room of crying children with his acoustic guitar and soft calming voice. Even though Charlie's time on earth may have been cut short there was no doubt he lived life to the fullest. He passionately love his church, his family, and his active lifestyle. As per his wishes, he has been cremated and a public memorial service will be held at Orchard Hill Church on January 31st, 2014 at 5:00 pm, located at 2551 Brandt School Rd, Franklin Park, PA 15090. He is now joined by friends and family in heaven, to his counterparts on earth raise a glass of Tanqueray Rangpur and tonic to his memory. Cheers! Arrangements entrusted to ANTHONY G. STAAB FUNERAL HOME, INC.

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