Antoine Robert (Bob) Martin

ANTOINE ROBERT (BOB) MARTIN passed away Sunday night in Houston surrounded by his beloved wife, children and grandchildren as they all shared their memories of his life. His room was filled with love and laughter and his final words, “I’m loving it…” reflected the joy he found in his life and family. A loving son, husband, father, grandfather and friend, Bob was a spiritual man, principled, large in stature in every way, and devoted to his family.

He is survived by his mother, uncle, two sisters and a brother, friends and extended family in South Africa; his wife and best friend, Pam in Burton, TX; his children he was so proud of: son, Dain Martin and wife Sandra, of Brenham, TX; daughter, Amanda Brock and husband Robert, of Houston, TX; and daughter, Debora Martin, of Spring, TX; his grandchildren who he adored and mentored, was gentle with, but firm in his teachings while delighting in their successes: Shane, Steven, Kyle, Christopher, Ryan, Robert, Diane, Alex and little Amanda; and the loving Brock family who became an extension of his own.

Bobby was born on the Island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean on March 22, 1937, and after a life filled with ranching, travel, wars and adventures primarily in Africa, settled happily in Burton, TX on Milwane Ranch, at peace on the land he loved so much, in a community that he embraced and that in return embraced him.

With a deep understanding of the value of freedom, Bobby became an American citizen in 2003 and was a patriot to the end. His smile would light up a room, his booming laugh would make you laugh and his old school impeccable manners were an example to all. He was kind, generous and never met a stranger or a stray animal he could not befriend. Bobby will be very missed by his “Pammy”, family and many friends. After courageously battling cancer, and never complaining, we know he goes to a better place and will continue to guide us all. “Hamba Gashle” Bobby, the drums are beating for you in Africa too!

His family thanks all of those who helped care for him at MD Anderson and beyond, and for all the prayers and concern.

Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 3, 2007, with Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer Street, Brenham, TX. Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:00 a.m., Friday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 701 Church Street, Brenham, TX, with Father David Ivey as Celebrant.

Weather permitting, immediately after the service, the family invites all friends to share stories of Bob’s life at his beloved Milwane Ranch.

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833 (979) 836-3611 www.brenham-memorial-chapel.com