ATHENS-Martin Dikis unexpectedly passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 18, 2023.
Martin was born in August of 1946 in a displaced persons camp in Germany to Olgerts and Alma Dikis, who escaped from Latvia during World War II. After the family immigrated to the United States in 1951, Martin grew up in Waverly, Ohio and graduated from Waverly High School and Ohio University. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War era. Martin worked at Athens County Job and Family Services until his retirement in 2009.
Martin loved and was deeply loved by his family. He was also an avid golfer and golf ball collector. He was a prolific reader and, in his retirement, joined the board of the Friends of the Athens Public Library and served on it until his death. He loved trying new foods, especially if cooked by international friends he made at the community garden. He also enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, gardening, feeding the birds and hanging out at a place some know as “Martyville”.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Rose Anne Morella Dikis, his parents, and a sister Dace Dikis.
Martin is survived by children, Lauren, Ben (Heather), Greg; loving grandchildren; siblings, Ilze Long and John (Judy) Dikis.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at the Athens Public Library community room on Tuesday, November 28th at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in his name can be made to the Friends of the Library. Checks can be made out to “The Friends of the Library” and mailed or dropped off at the Athens Public Library, 30 Home St., Athens, OH 45701. Please share a memory, a mote of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
