James L. Martin

James L. Martin, 86, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed Friday, August 21, 2026, at Davenport Lutheran Home.

A memorial celebration honoring his life and legacy is planned for later this fall. Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.

James Leonard Martin was born on January 11, 1940, in Eastman, Wisconsin, the son of Leonard and Loretta (Foley) Martin. He married Elizabeth Ostby on September 23, 1967, in Northbrook, Illinois.

He attended Seneca Wisconsin High School and the University of Wisconsin; graduating with a PhD in Adult Education and Statistics in 1970.

In his career he worked as Director of Education at various professional societies; ending his career at Northwestern University. He was also a proud United Stated Army Veteran.

After retirement, Jim volunteered at the Chicago Botanic Garden, working on prairie restoration – a passion of his. He also sang with the St. Joan of Arc Church choir in Evanston, Illinois and community choirs and was one of the go to family members for anyone doing family genealogy.

Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty Martin; son, Jeffrey (Sharon Bolt) Martin; granddaughter, Nicole; sisters, Margaret Scheckel and Ann (Larry) Scheckel; and sister-in-laws, Rita Martin and Kathleen (Roger) Schorr; and brother-in-law, Peter Kuhlmann; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Loretta Martin; granddaughter, Rachael; brother, John Martin; sister, Mary (Gurnee) Bridgman; brother-in-law, Ed Scheckel; and sister-in-law, Patricia Kuhlmann.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.