Martin J. Findling (Marty), age 88, husband, father, grandfather, and beloved resident of Windsor Park in Carol Stream, passed away December 4, 2024. Born January 24, 1936, in Tolleston, Indiana, to Martin Sr. and Renata Findling (nee Seegers), Marty lived a life marked by dedication and service.

Marty is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Carol (nee Rusch) and their cherished children: David and Susan Findling, Dawn Blum, and Laura Boynton. His legacy lives on through his seven adored grandchildren: Renata and Caroline Findling, Marisa, Mikala and Miranda Blum, and Alexander and Lukas Boynton.

Marty's most profound passion was his unwavering devotion to his wife, Carol. Having met at Valparaiso University, they married in June 1959, and started their life together in Summit, IL, before moving to Orland Park, IL.  Marty and Carol also lived in Naperville, IL and Beatrice, NE.   In retirement, Marty and Carol lived in Princeton, IL before moving to Carol Stream, IL.

A graduate of Valparaiso University with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Marty served in the United States Navy Reserve from 1953 to 1968, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade with a top security clearance. His professional journey began as an engineer with International Telephone & Telegraph (ITT) and spanned roles as a Systems Analyst at Motorola, Communications Engineer, and eventually, Superintendent of Research at the Natural Gas Pipeline Company.

Marty earned his MBA from the University of Chicago, became a Certified Energy Manager, and eventually became a Registered Professional Engineer in Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois.

In retirement, Marty remained a pillar of his community. His deep involvement in church, serving on committees and mission boards, mirrored his lifelong commitment to service. A member of Lions Club International for 54 years, Marty led numerous initiatives, including the Sight and Hearing Program and was honored twice as a Foundation Fellow by the Lions of Illinois.  Marty was actively involved in the growth of the mission organization International Partners in Mission for over 50 years.

His passion for conservation and recycling saw him spearhead the Green/Environmental Team at Windsor Park, earning an Earth Day recognition award for the community. He also formed the Fishing Team, promoting environmental health and fish stocking of Windsor's many ponds. Marty was also an avid fisherman who enjoyed trips with his family, including multiple fly-in trips to northern Canada and in more recent years to Minocqua, WI. A lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, Marty's marksmanship was highlighted during his time with the Great Lakes Naval Reserve Shooting Team.  He also enjoyed coin collecting, especially ancient coins from Greek and Roman eras.

Marty and Carol's love for travel led them on over 30 Road Scholar Travel Programs worldwide, including seven inter-generational trips with their grandchildren. Marty cherished moments spent tinkering in "Papa's Workshop," on woodworking and electronics projects, with both his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Martin J. Findling Sr. and Renata M. Findling (nee Seegers), brothers Herbert and Willard.

Marty's life epitomized his church's motto: "He has shown you, O mankind, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"   Marty left all of us in a far better place with his love and presence.   May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Windsor Park - Benevolent Care Fund ( https://www.covliving.org/contact-us/donation/ ), St. Paul's Lutheran Church Wheaton ( https://www.stpaulwheaton.org/ ), and International Partners in Mission ( https://ipmconnect.org/) .

Family and friends may sign the guest book at https://www.hultgrenfh.com/obits . For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.