Martin Miles

In the verdant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, where the Grand River flows with a quiet dignity, Martin Louis Miles first graced this earthly stage on the twenty-seventh of July in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and fifty-four. And it was in this same city, upon the first day of May, two thousand and twenty-five, that he did take his final bow, succumbing to the fierce adversary that is cancer.

Martin, known affectionately to kith and kin as a maestro of melodies and a pedagogue of the highest order, wielded the baton of life with the same passion and precision as he did in the hallowed halls of education. He, an alumnus of Michigan State University, bedecked with a master’s degree in music and education, did cry "Go Green!" in both his tutelage and his triumphs. It was within these walls that he honed his craft, a craft he would later share with countless young minds as a high school music teacher and band director.

Martin's life was a tapestry rich with the colors of his interests. His feline companion, Parker, was his confidant and muse. Music and movies filled his life with rich melodies and moments of joy, humor, intrigue, and solace. And, oh, how he cherished the convivial gatherings with his dearest friends, where laughter was shared over sumptuous dinners and smooth bourbon, or the curling smoke of a fine cigar.

He leaves behind his beloved family: his sister, Karen McPhee, who walked alongside him on his life's journey; his brother-in-law, Marty McPhee, who stood as a steadfast companion; his nieces, Shannon McPhee and Kelsey Donahue, who danced to the rhythm of his loving guidance; and a chorus of cousins, each a note in the symphony of his life. He is now reunited with his beloved parents, Betty and Louis Miles, and twenty-one doting aunts and uncles who will embrace him with boundless love.

A memorial will be planned for later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Grand Rapids Catholic Central band program through the Catholic Central Fund. (Under “Designation,” please select Band Program.)

May the force be with you, dear Maestro. Sleep well, knowing the rebels have triumphed!