Julie Ann Martin

Julie Ann Martin, age 59, of Royal Oak, died suddenly at home on the morning of Tuesday, November 6, of complications from her long experience of Multiple Sclerosis. She leaves behind many grieving friends and family members, most importantly her three children – Sophie, Noah and Ben Gerhard - whom she adored. They have been the light of her life for every day of their lives. She was immensely proud of them and she was buoyed by their love and affection. Being a mother was the most important thing in her life and she loved every moment of it. Julie grew up in Royal Oak and attended Shrine schools for 12 years. She was the youngest of six children of Robert and Therese Martin. Friends from grade school and high school have been like family for the years ever since. She worked in her high school days at Susie Q Restaurant, where she also made lifelong friends. She attended two years of college (studying nursing) and then worked across a career in medical billing and medical office management. Julie was diagnosed with MS in 1992. MS led to disability, though, and she stopped working when her twin boys were young. She never stopped moving or cheering on her children. And her humor never failed her. Her smarts and her funniness leave a lasting impact on everyone who loved her or knew her. She loved her life. She was an inspiration to all of us. In addition to Sophie, Noah and Ben, Julie is survived by four brothers she adored: James Martin (Anne); Robert Martin (Annette Siffin); Thomas Martin (Judi Josiah-Martin); and Bruce Martin (Cathy), and by her beloved sister Maureen Martin (Mike Penskar). She is also survived by eleven nieces and nephews, five of their spouses, and six great-nieces and -nephews. This family is big and boisterous and funny - and Julie has always been a much loved part of it. Holidays, camping trips at Ludington, gatherings to barbecue, and long text conversations about the Tigers (sigh) and the Lions (groan) - these are the times that we held her dearest. These are the memories that will comfort us all. We are very, very grateful that for the last year, Julie has had the promise and joy of life with her fiancé, Kevin Cavanaugh. He and his family will also miss her dearly. We will all miss her greatly. She is predeceased by the children’s father, Tim Gerhard, and by both her parents. There will be a memorial gathering on Saturday, November 10, at 2 pm, until the time of a service at 3 pm, at William Sullivan and Son Funeral Home (705 W. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak). Donations in Julie’s memory may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or to the Royal Oak Schools Foundation.

Julie Ann Martin

May 15, 1959 - November 6, 2018