Obituary of Virginia Martin

Virginia Joan Louise Mackanos was born on November 28, 1932 in Clymer, Pennsylvania. She was one of eleven children born from the union of the late George Mackanos and the late Elizabeth (Popson) Mackanos. Virginia was a 1950 graduate of Clymer High School. She married the love of her life Clarence Irvin Martin on August 12, 1950 in Dearborn. Virginia was blessed to stay home to care for their four children. Not afraid to say what was on her mind, Virginia was a lot of fun to be around. She was quite the jokester and made light of things. Virginia was known for her passion for clothing. As a snappy dresser, everything had to match from head to toe. Virginia was an avid bowler and enjoyed traveling nationally with her daughter, participating in International Bowling Tournaments. She also enjoyed going to the casino playing Keno, bingo and playing her odds at the Lottery. Most of all Virginia cherished the time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Virginia, age 83, of Monroe passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. In addition to her parents and her beloved husband of 49 years, Virginia was preceded in death by a son: Irvin Joseph Martin; a grandson: David A. Dietz; five brothers: Joseph, George, Michael, John, and Paul Mackanos; and one sister: Ruth Ann (Mackanos) Samnik. To cherish her memory she leaves a daughter: Louise "LouAnn" (Richard) Dietz; two sons: Bruce J.Martin and Brian J. (Colleen) Martin; one grandchild: Stephanie K. Martin; one great-granddaughter: Meagan L. Dietz; one brother: Louie (Barbara) Mackanos of Homosassa, Florida; three sisters: Margaret Scott of Clymer, Pennsylvania, Elizabeth (Ralph) Monafo of Bristol, RI, and Joann Sagal of West Farmington, Ohio; many nieces and nephews; and her most dear friend: Shirley Cooley. Friends may gather for a Chapel Service at 12:15pm on Friday, January 15, 2016 at the Chapel of the Cross at Roselawn Memorial Park, 13200 South Dixie Highway. Pastor Harold Raines of Monroe Full Gospel will officiate and entombment will follow. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. Memorial donations are suggested to Promedica Monroe Hospice. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com, then selecting the Online Tributes page.