David Willis Martin, 39, of Columbia died Sunday at his residence. He was born in Wichita, KS, on May 24, 1970, a son of Colette R. Martin and the late Michael E. Martin. He was a computer technician and recently celebrated his 10 year anniversary with the SCANA Corporation. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps having served in the Gulf War. He was also a member of the Marine Corp League. David had a love of photography, but his true passion was his family.

In addition to his mother of Irmo, Mr. Martin is survived by his wife, Christy Lynn Martin; two daughters, Shelby L. and Rowan P. Martin of the home; a halfsister, Veronique Arrowood of Oklahoma; and a half- brother, Eric Helfgott of Columbia. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Willis and Mildred Martin of Newberry.

The family will receive friends from 6- 8 pm Saturday at Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church in West Columbia. A private interment service will be conducted at a later date.

Memorials may be made to American Heart Association, Mid Atlantic Affiliate, PO Box 5216, Glen Allen, PA 23058- 5216.

Messages to the family may be sent via email at notes@whitakerfuneralhome. com.

Whitaker Funeral Home, Chapin, is assisting the family.

Editor's note:

David worked with The

Columbia Star in 2008 as both a photographer and writer. His coverage of American Legion baseball, the annual USMC Mud Run, and numerous high school sports brought many

readers to The Columbia

Star and many fans to David himself. He is asked about often when our reporters are at games and other events, and he will be missed.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to David's wife and his two young girls, and we wish them peace in this most sorrowful time.