AKRON — Martin J. “Marty” Gearhart, 54, Akron, died at 6:28 p.m. Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at his residence.
He was born Jan. 31, 1964, in Rochester, to Max J. and Mary Jane Phillipy Gearhart.
Marty worked for the town of Akron for 33 years and served as superintendent for nearly 32 of those years.
He was a 1982 graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School. He was an active member of the Henry Township Volunteer Fire Dept. for 36 years. He was in his sixth year serving as fire chief and in his second stint as chief.
Marty was known to take pride in the town of Akron. He could be seen for years early in the morning moving snow and cleaning streets for safe passage. His knowledge of the town’s people and infrastructure is irreplaceable.
Marty was named the Akron Fourth of July parade grand marshal twice for his dedication to the community. In July 2017 the sledding hill at Cutshall Park in Akron was named in honor of him, Marty Mountain. The state of Indiana recognized Marty’s investment in Akron by honoring him with the Manager of the Year award in 2015.
Marty spent 43 years on Town Lake. He enjoyed fishing and having many family gatherings where all were welcome. He also had a passion for construction. He was always building and improving his property.
Survivors include his sons, Aaron (and wife Sierra) Gearhart, Akron, and Cameron Gearhart, Akron; sisters, Shelly Bahney, Mentone, and Melea Gearhart, Akron; brother, Michael (and wife Terry) Gearhart, Akron; nieces, Shannon and A’shel; nephews, Justin, Josh, Travis, Troy, Matt and Clay; and his companion, Shannon Smith, Akron.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mary Jane Gearhart.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 26, in Akron Community Center, 815 Rural St., Akron. Burial will be in Akron Cemetery.
Visitation is from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 25, at Akron Community Center, with a fireman’s memorial service to be conducted by the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association at 7 p.m.
Arrangements are entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.
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Memorials to Henry Township Volunteer Fire Department or to the Akron Parks Department.
Share a memory or send a condolence at www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
