Florida Keys, FL – The medical community and the family of Dr. John Craig Martin, affectionately known as Craig, are mourning the loss of a beloved physician and adventurer. Dr. Martin passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at the age of 92, surrounded by his cherished wife of 57 years, Sherry (Sharon Bate). His death marks the end of a remarkable life filled with dedication to medicine, love for adventure, and devotion to his family.
What Happened
Dr. John Craig Martin was born in 1932 in Toledo, Ohio, and from an early age, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to learning and service. He pursued higher education at The Ohio State University before being drafted into the United States Army. After his military service, Dr. Martin went on to earn his medical degree from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, before completing his surgical residency at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic.
In 1965, Dr. Martin established his own private practice as a general surgeon. Over his 40-year medical career, he earned a stellar reputation, becoming a beloved physician and respected colleague. Thousands of patients were touched by his skill, compassion, and dedication, and his colleagues admired him for his professionalism and leadership in the field.
Who Was Dr. John Craig Martin / Background
Dr. Martin’s life was characterized by more than just his incredible career in surgery. He was a man with a deep love for adventure and a zest for life. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Craig was passionate about speedboat racing, world travel, and maintaining an active lifestyle. He loved swimming and often started his day with morning laps in the pool. His afternoons were spent enjoying rounds of golf with his wife, Sherry, a shared pastime they enjoyed for many years.
Throughout his life, Dr. Martin made it a priority to live fully and embrace every moment. His curiosity and drive for exploration shaped not only his career but also his personal life. He and Sherry spent their final years in the serene Florida Keys, where they found peace and contentment in their golden years together.
Legacy and Contributions
Dr. Martin’s legacy as a general surgeon is profound. He was not only a skilled medical professional but also a mentor, guide, and friend to countless individuals. His patients, whom he cared for deeply, remember him for his kindness, precision, and the genuine interest he took in their well-being. Throughout his career, Craig never lost sight of the humanity in medicine, always providing compassionate care to those who needed it most.
In addition to his contributions to the medical community, Dr. Martin was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sherry, and their two daughters, Nicole Martin-Prendergast and Danielle Martin Afnan, as well as his grandchildren, Alex and Ashley Afnan. His family describes him as an extraordinary father and grandfather who instilled in them the values of hard work, adventure, and kindness.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Dr. Martin’s passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the medical community, family, and friends. Messages of remembrance highlight his warmth, generosity, and the deep impact he made on all who knew him. Colleagues have praised his professionalism and the legacy he leaves within the field of surgery, while friends and family reflect on the lasting influence of his adventurous spirit and love for life.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
In accordance with Dr. Martin’s wishes, private services were held in Florida. His family has expressed deep gratitude for the care he received in his final year and requests that donations in his memory be made to Velas Exceptional Care and Services in Homestead, FL. The family also plans to announce a celebration of life at a later date, where loved ones will gather to honor his extraordinary life.
Closing
Dr. John Craig Martin will be remembered for his immense contributions to the medical community, his love of life, and his unwavering dedication to his family and friends. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched, the skills he imparted, and the adventures he shared. His spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with the same passion, dedication, and kindness that he exemplified throughout his remarkable life.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
