Chris L. Martin, 73, of Huntley, died peacefully on May 17, 2024, in Elgin.
Chris was born in Chicago on October 20, 1950, to parents Hans and Dolores Martin. On June 12, 1971, he married his high school sweetheart Karen Wikman. Chris was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and a disciplined worker. He worked diligently to provide for his family and took pride in caring for them. Chris especially enjoyed going on rides on his gator with his wife and grandkids. He was a jack of all trades and could fix anything. He spent countless hours tinkering in his garage and loved to spend time there. He had a favorite sign hanging in the garage that read: “Tool Envy. He who dies with the most tools Wins.”
Chris was a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather who will be missed dearly.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Karen Martin, his sons, Kevin (Heather) Martin, and Corey Martin, his grandchildren, Angelica, Griffin, Averie, Ellie, and Logan, and his sister, Darlene (John) McKinley.
He was preceded in death by his son, Brian Martin.
For further information, please contact the DeFiore Funeral Home, 847-515-8772
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I’m so very sad about Chris’s passing and my heart thoughts and prayers go out to all his family. Chris, Karen and their family have been great neighbors and friends for 18 years. I love Chris and miss him very much!! ❤️❤️❤️
So sorry to hear about Chris's passing. He loved his family and will be missed by all. Our prayers go out to the family.
Chris was a close and trusted friend of nearly 30 years. Always willing and able to lend a hand for what ever projects needed skilled attention. A hunter, competitive shooter, neighbor and genuinely a good human being. I will miss him and his sense of humor greatly. My heart felt condolences to Karen and the family as they have lost a true family hero.
I met Cris in 1984 when I started working at Sars Lee. He was the best electrician I've ever seen. Every now and then I would help him at his hot dog stand when I got off from the third shift. It was always fun. The thing I will miss the most is going over to his house on Tuesday morning for coffee and conversation and then going to Allen's Corner for lunch. Miss you big guy.