Michael “Mike” Charles Martin

FLORENCE - Michael “Mike” Charles Martin of Bartlett, TN was born March 6, 1950 and passed away August 7, 2023 surrounded by loved ones near his home in Florence, MT. After graduating from Bartlett HS, he got his degree in Forestry from Mississippi State University and became a forester. Later called to ministry, he attended Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary and was a youth minister for many years across the South. It was no secret he always dreamt of being out West. In 1993 his dreams came true when asked to be a church planter in MT, where he started Lolo Baptist Church. Countless men, women and children were blessed by his ability to listen, empathize and encourage. His love for music and the outdoors followed him throughout life. One of his favorite pastimes was going to the Bitterroot River, sitting by the water with his sweetheart Cindy and letting their pups run. Mike’s celebration of life was held at Florence Carlton Community Church. His favorite song, The Anchor Holds, was sung and - as he would have wished - there was much more laughter than tears. Never one to miss an opportunity, the message of salvation through Jesus Christ was shared. He was laid to rest at Florence-carlton Cemetery, where his earthly body will remain in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley he loved dearly and called home for 30 years. He is survived by his wife, Cindy Martin of MT; two brothers, Dave and Larry Martin of TN; three children, Heather Zeilman of CO, and Shawn and Tyler Martin of NC; one daughter by marriage, Emily Worrell of MT, and four grandchildren. To share condolences and memories email Heather at hezeilman@ gmail.com.