Joseph R. Martin

Joseph “Joe” R. Martin, 59, of Davenport, Iowa, passed Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family.

Graveside services will take place at 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 10 at Rock Island National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend should meet in the parking lot at Trimble Pointe, 701 12th Street, Moline, between 12:30 p.m. and 12:45 p.m. to join the procession. Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory in Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities. Memorials may be made to the Quad City Veterans Outreach Center in Joe’s honor.

Joseph Raymond Martin was born on November 3, 1966, in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Lewis “Jerry” Gerald and Gloria Jean (Clause) Martin. He graduated from Bettendorf High School with the Class of 1985. Following graduation, Joe proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years. During his service, he received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

After returning home, Joe worked a variety of jobs while traveling, including as a painter, farmer, delivery driver for FedEx, and ironworker. He was a member of Ironworkers Local 736 in Hamilton, Ontario, and worked in the trade for over 10 years.

Joe attended Heritage Church in Rock Island prior to his health declining and held onto his faith. He was a strong supporter of veterans’ benefits and programs. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and sports of all kinds. Although he lived and traveled in many places, the Quad Cities was always home.

Joe had a way of making life lighter, no matter the situation. He loved to joke, tease, and keep everyone on their toes. He often said the best part of his day was making someone laugh. He was a world-class jokester, a fearless trash talker, and just enough of a pain in the ass to keep things interesting. His quick wit and perfectly timed comebacks were unmatched, and if you managed to get him back good, he’d just shake his head with no words to say. Being around Joe meant laughter was never far behind, and that’s exactly how he liked it.

Joe is survived by his nieces and nephews, Jacob Martin, Nicholas Martin, Marissa Martin, Karlee Martin, LeeAnne Hill, Terra (Nathan) Masters, Beth (Chris) Martin-Costello; brother, Scott Martin; and dear friends, Diana Hepler and Benji Engesser. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Gloria Martin; and siblings, Jerry Martin and Holly Martin.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.