Smithfield- Robert A. “Bob” Martindale, 76, of Smithfield passed away Thursday at his farm in rural Smithfield, cutting and splitting firewood, something he loved to do.
He was born April 12, 1946 at Canton the son of Glade R. and Mildred LaFern (Pigg) Martindale. He married Debra K. Mustread on February 15, 1976 at Smithfield. She passed away on December 29, 2021. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, William “Bill” Martindale. Surviving are four children, Marlo (Don) Willett of Petersburg, Robyn Smith of Petersburg, Annie (Derek) Kolbus of Slidell, LA; and Jerry (Lisa) Nunn of Tallula, eleven grandchildren, three brothers, Doug (Cheryl) Martindale of Ipava, Dennis (Elizabeth) Martindale of Canton, and Kenneth Martindale of Cuba, three sisters, Sara Toomer of Fisher, Gena (Dana) O’Leary of Canton, and Ellen (Steven) Milleson of Canton.
Bob was a member of the Lewistown High School class of 1964. He was a proud veteran serving in the US Navy Seabee Construction Battalion 11 from December 1964 through April 1969. In August 1967, he was wounded in action, while serving his country in Quang Tri, Vietnam and the recipient of the following awards: Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with FMF Combat Insignia and 3 Bronze Star Attachment, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Medal w/ Palm) & Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Civil Actions Medal, First Class Medal w/ Palm). After spending three months hospitalized in Guam, he returned to the United States, where he proudly supported and thanked all veterans, especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. He moved back to Fulton County where he began a family, making a lifetime of memories with his friends and family. Bob worked as a skilled carpenter and heavy equipment operator. From 1976 to 1985, he worked for Amax Coal Mine at Sun Spot Mine in the Vermont/Ipava area and later in southern Illinois. He retired from Carpenter’s Local Union #183 where he worked as a carpenter foreman for River City Construction. He retired in 2001 and spent the last 20 years working to build his rural farm with his beloved wife, Debbie. In 2012, Bob became the primary caregiver for his wife, who had Early Onset Alzheimer’s. Bob was heartbroken after losing Debbie and not a day passed where he did not wish she was his right by his side. He filled much of his time since caring for their dog, Sadie, until her passing in July. Bob was committed to his responsibility of his role in his family, which he did not take for granted.
Bob was a proud dad and grandpa. He spent many years attending music programs, school and sporting events for his grandkids. His pride and joy was truly his family, his kids’ and grandkids’ accomplishments and all that he and Debbie built together. He talked to his daughters regularly, if not daily. Bob had a love for nature, his farm, natural springs, antique tractor restoration, and especially, restoring and operating his big yellow D6 CAT bulldozer. He was well liked and did not know a stranger. He was a member of the Lewistown VFW Post 5001 & a proud Seabee veteran, always having the motto “CAN DO”. He lived by the phrase ‘Live and Let Live’ and he meant it with all of his being. While Bob spent his lifetime believing in Jesus, he formally accepted Jesus Christ as His Savior being baptized in 2021.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown with the Reverend Barbara Sinclair officiating. Burial will be in Baughman Cemetery at rural Smithfield with a military service by the US Navy, Lewistown VFW Post 5001, and the Lewistown American Legion Bishop Post 1. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday at the memorial home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewistown VFW Post 5001. To view Bob’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit henrylange.com.
