Gail E. "Speedy" Martin, 95, formerly of Columbia City, passed away at 3:00 a.m. Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Mason Health & Rehabilitation in Warsaw.

Gail was born on August 11, 1929 in Troy Township, Whitley County, Indiana, a son of the late Delbert and Irene (Wright) Martin.  He graduated from Larwill High School.

Speedy was inducted into the U.S. Army January 19, 1951 as a radio operator during the Korean conflict.  He was honorably discharged on January 31, 1953.

He worked for Dana Corporation for almost 50 years, retiring in 1993.

On September 28, 1963, he was united in marriage to Sally Meyers, they made their home in Columbia City.  Sally died February 22, 2017.  On January 10, 2018 he married Carol Schuman-Krider.  Carol died on September 5, 2024.

Speedy enjoyed fishing, golfing and coffee at the Nook.  He also was part of the Etna men's prayer group that met on Thursday mornings.

He was a member of American Legion #98, the VFW in Columbia City and the Elks.  He was also a member of the First Christian Church, Warsaw, Indiana.

Speedy is survived by children, Laura (Tom) Shive of Broken Arrow, OK, Brenda (Tom) Shearer of Columbia City; six grandchildren seven great grandchildren, and one great great granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Martinez, and granddaughter, Kristina Shive. sisters, Hilda Gaerte and Esther Rider.

Visitation is from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday (April 30th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Burial is at Scott-Keister Cemetery in Columbia City.  Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday (May 1st) at the funeral home, with visitation one hour prior.

Memorials in Speedy's honor are to Donor's Choice.