Obituary of Martin Benjamin Wildfong

Martin Benjarmin Wildfong (Marty) Born July 31, 1943 Died December 21, 2025 Born in Flint, MI on July 31, 1943, Marty was the son of Ben Wildfong and Mary Vincent Wildfong. Marty grew up in Clio, MI. Being the oldest of six children meant he was often responsible for his younger brothers, Denny, Larry, Sonny, Timmy, and his baby sister, Bridget. After Marty graduated from high school, he joined the army. When he returned home, he married his wife, Gail, and that began Marty’s journey of chasing that “UP North Life”. Shortly after Marty and Gail married they moved to Gladwin where they would raise their family. They had many adventures together in Gladwin with friends and family. Marty worked as a salesman for many years, selling a variety of things, finally settling on commercial roofing sales. It wasn’t long before Marty was a top salesperson in his company, but the thought of being his own boss was too great and in 1990, he started his own independent sales rep company. Throughout the years he has been presented with many sales achievement awards, earning top sales in the country several times. His peers often stated that “Marty was the man!” Marty was always in his element entertaining, especially his family. He was always on the lookout for some hunting property, a place for family and friends to gather. After many seasons in a variety of locations, he found the perfect spot in Upper Peninsula of Michigan and in 1994 his dream of a deer camp became a reality, and plans began to make it a family favorite. He was number 1 member of “Stone Camp” and was given the nickname Big Gun. Yes, the rumors are true. He did, after retirement, even try to farm a bit. Marty was big Detroit Tigers and Lions fan and passed that passion on to anyone that wanted to talk sports. In his later years, Freeland gave him a home base to focus on what ultimately was his favorite thing, his grandkids. The three girls and one boy were his pride and joy. He absolutely loved being a grandpa. He took great pride in watching them grow and attend sporting events, award ceremonies, rodeos and even a state championship match or two. Brett and Krista and the entire family want to thank New Hope Bay, Transitions Hospice and all the people involved in Marty’s care for the last several years. A private family celebration of life will be held in January at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bailee Mantei Foundation at baileemanteifoundation.org or Venmo bmfoundation44 or mail a check to The Bailee Mantei Foundation at 11149 Tittabawassee Rd. Freeland, MI 48623. Please enjoy the Holiday Season! It’s what Marty and Gail would have wanted.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.