Birth date: Dec 24, 1969 Death date: Mar 23, 2026
Dana Lynn Martin, a cherished educator, devoted family member, and beacon of kindness, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at Southwest Hospital, at the age of 56. Born on Christmas Eve of 1969 in Berea, Ohio, Dana was a gif Read Obituary
Dana was my elementary school gym teacher over a decade ago, but she was someone you’ll always remember. Her kindness and humor made everyone feel like they’re at home. She made small moments in gym class turn into long-lasting memories. A soul like hers will always be with you.
Dana will forever be missed by the many current and former athletes of Strongsville Special Olympics. Rest in Peace.
I am heartbroken to hear about the loss of Dana. Wishing you peace, comfort, and courage during this incredibly difficult time. ~The Mekeel Family
So many family memories that we hold near and dear to our hearts. From salt fork, boating, going to Dana’s parents home for family visits. Heaven gained a beautiful angel, but find peace that Zoli was there to greet her with open arms❤️ Our deepest condolences Marlene, Dawn and family.
Love Gail, Jeanne, Janet and Jill (The Yeager Family)
I met Ms Martin when I had just moved to Strongsville and accompanied my son, Nicholas at Safety Town. She told me all about Special Olympics for my boys and was so welcoming. We were even luckier to have her as the gym teacher for my five kids at Whitney. She always had someone positive to say about them. When the boys would have a meltdown she would tell me it's okay and things will get better, which it did. She would tell me how Alexis was great at floor hockey but vicious. After she left Whitney we use to talk about how gym class changed to cup stacking and dancing. She would laugh so loud! Her smile made everything better.
Dana, as she would yell at me to call her. Was there for us through so many milestones. The passing of my kids dad, graduations and birthday parties. Even when her health becoming challenging she would show up to cheer on athletes, support our SO family at their fundraisers, and check in with everyone.
Ms. Martin always gave her whole heart. She recruited her whole family to support our athletes and we are wver so grateful. There should be more people like Ms. Martin. We were truly blessed by her.
Our hearts and prayers are with her family!
My condolences and my heart go out to the martin family. I was Dana's computer tech and knew her for over 15 years. She was a wonderful person, and in the summer.always gave me a bag, of vegetables.she grew in her garden.
I will miss her and keep her in my heart and prayers always. God bless
Dana and I first met at Whitney Elementary where we both shared an office together. She told me about Special Olympics and that I should bring Zoe because she would love it! From there our friendship grew. Dana struggled, but never complained! Her life was hard, but she was blessed because she had so many people who loved her and her generous spirit! I am going to miss my friend! I will remember her often and I will smile because God allowed an angel to walk with me on this journey of life. To Marlene and Dawn, I am truly sorry for your loss! Marlene I can’t remember a Special Olympics event where you weren’t there supporting everyone! Dawn you were truly an amazing sister. Your dedication from throwing her a fantastic 50th birthday party to helping her transition to her new home and organizing the sale of her house. She was blessed to have you both in her life. I will continue to pray that God comforts both of you as you move forward through this difficult time. Know that you are not alone!
