William C. Martin

William Charles Martin, affectionately known to his family as "Smart Bill," passed away peacefully at his home in Wyoming on the morning of January 9th, 2025, at the age of 82. His passing marked the conclusion of a life defined by remarkable intelligence, unwavering dedication, and an enduring love for his family.

Born February 17, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Charles and Hilda Martin, William exhibited an early passion for learning. He attended Elder High School, where he laid the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of knowledge. William graduated Summa Cum Laude from Xavier University with a degree in Physics before earning a Master’s in Optical Engineering from the Rochester School of Technology in Rochester, New York.

Throughout high school and college, William worked at the Price Hill Library, where he earned a reputation as a star employee. His dedication and work ethic were evident even in his early years, traits that carried through his professional life.

William dedicated 39 years of service to the United States Air Force, contributing significantly to the advancement of electro-optical sensing technology. His career at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, with the Air Force Research Laboratory, spanned from December 1964 to June 2004, leaving an indelible mark on his field.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, William loved music and the arts. He and his wife, Mary Beth, were longtime members of the Cincinnati Symphony. This passion extended into their home, where William’s talent for woodworking led to countless handcrafted picture frames showcasing his wife’s beautiful art.

Following his retirement, William found joy in traveling, reading, and further honing his woodworking skills—a craft he pursued with the same precision and care that defined his career. His creations, much like his life, were works of art. A devout man, William was a longtime parishioner of St. Vivian’s Church and later St. Bartholomew Church, where his faith remained a guiding light.

Above all, William cherished his family. To his beloved grandchildren, Grace Elizabeth Manus (18), Mary Katherine Manus (16), and Elaine Frances Manus (14), he was affectionately known as “Papa.” His greatest joy in later years was spending time with them and watching them grow into remarkable individuals.

William is survived by his wife of 31 years, Mary Beth Martin; his son, Peer Karl Albert Butschkau, and daughter-in-law, Rebecca Jane Wilson; his daughter, Amy Elizabeth Manus, and son-in-law, William Frank Manus Jr.; his brother, Thomas Martin, and sister-in-law, Frances Martin; a special cousin, Jeanne Bischoff; and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Mary Whissel, and cousin Kathy Bischoff.

William will be remembered not only for his brilliance and professional accomplishments but also for his kindness, wisdom, humor, and passion for the things he loved most: his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and the fond memories of those privileged to know him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 24th, 2025, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church on Winton Road, from 9:30 a.m. until mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.., followed by procession to Spring Grove Cemetery where he will be laid to rest. A Celebration of Life will occur at Gabby’s Café on Wyoming Avenue from 2 – 4pm. The family invites all who knew and loved William to join them in celebrating his extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Bartholomew Parish or the Freestore Foodbank in William’s memory.  Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com