Bruce Rector Martin, Jr, 87, of Bay City passed away August 21, 2015. He was born July 3, 1928 in Hamlin, Texas to the late Bruce Rector Martin, Sr. and Jennie Mae O'Dell Martin. He was the son of a Nazarene preacher, but later raised his family in the Baptist church. He grew up having many adventures during his childhood in West Texas; the Alpine-Balmorhea area. During the building of the Balmorhea State Park and famous spring fed pool, he served as the mascot to the Civilian Conservation Corporation. With the persuasion of his friends and the creative stroke of his pen, he made it appear that he was older than he was and joined the United States Navy at the age of 16. As a young sailor he spent many months on the high seas. He traveled to the Asiatic-Pacific area, the American area, took part in the Philippine Liberation, and crossed the equator twice. After his discharge from the Navy, Bruce attended Sul Ross University in Alpine, TX. He married the love of his life, Mildred, on August 20, 1948. They made their home in Houston until 1970, when they moved to Bay City. He managed the BF Goodrich store, which he eventually purchased and renamed Martin Tire Company, and later added the Martin Taxi Company. He spent most of his career in sales, loved to travel, and never met a stranger. During the Christmas season he made a variety of fudge and sold it all over town. In the summer months, he could be found selling watermelons on the corner.

"He was a trusted advisor, mentor, and best friend. He lived a life of honor, integrity, and loyalty. It was a life of service to his country, family, and friends, driven always by a great positive attitude, an unswerving love of family, and an abiding faith in God. He will be sorely missed by all of us who knew and loved him."

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mildred Martin, sisters Virginia Frederickson, Doris Crawford, Loyce Mills, and brother, Jerry Martin.

Survivors include daughters Sylvia Reimer and husband Jerry of Spring, and Denise Rodgers and husband Tom of Bay City; son, Bruce Rector (Rex) Martin III of Galveston; Grandchildren Kym Teal and husband Scott, Larry Currie and wife Gaye Lynn, Christy Collins and husband Vic, and Matt Rodgers and wife Elizabeth; and 10 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Hayley, Jacob, Grace, Kaylee, Emily, Kathryn, Zach, Paden, Ramsie; and 1 great-great-grandaughter, Maylee.

The family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with a service following at 11:00 AM with Rev. Jose DeLeon officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery with Matagorda County Cavalry and VFW Post 2438 providing Military Honors. His grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

The family request that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Bruce's name to The American Diabetes Association or the charity of your choice.