Gary Alan Martek, PhD, of Blythewood, S.C. passed away on June 5, 2025 in the loving arms of his wife, Brenda Kae Merritt Martek, at MUSC Charleston.
Born in Bay City, Michigan, he was the son of the late Charles Frank Martek and Mary Keesamas Martek.
Gary was known throughout the Ham Radio community with his call sign W7DO and enjoyed talking to all people around the world. He had many friends and had a record high for his number of contacts and expeditions he sponsored.
Gary served our country in the U.S. Navy as an electronic technician onboard the USS Robert E. Lee and USS Cavalla. After leaving the Navy he obtained his PhD from Pacific Western University in Philosophy and Applied Science. He worked for Shakespeare for over 20 years as vice president of research and development for military operations.
Gary had the ability to make his wife laugh even if she was mad at him and thought of others before himself. He had a tremendous heart for all who knew him and had so much fun living in Blythewood.
His children and grandchildren will forever cherish the warmth of his laughter, his sharp wit, and the simple, beautiful moments they shared. He loved having his grandchildren,
Jessianna and William, come over for tractor rides and playing outside. His children fondly recall some of their favorite times such as cozy evenings watching Big Trouble in Little China, camping trips in Washington state to Paradise near Rainier, joining him at amateur radio meetings, or hitting the lanes for a night of bowling. His great sense of humor and quiet strength will live on in the stories we tell and the love we’ll continue to carry in his name.
He is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife, Brenda Kae Merritt-Martek; his children, Kendra O’Leary, Monica Mary Martek, and Bernard Martek; his grandsons, Sebastian O’Leary (Rachel) and Leland O’Leary; stepson, Trey Quarles (Jessica); step-grandchildren, Jessianna and William; sister, Mary Jane Owczarzak of Michigan; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Denver.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Paul Martek.
Gary fought the good fight against leukemia with a brave heart and solid strength. The family wishes to acknowledge the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center: Dr. Jonathan Lucas Alexander and staff, 7 West, Dr. Dominic, and the most amazing and caring nurses who showed him so much care and love. Dr. Goodwin, ICU and the caring nurses who showed such compassion and care, especially nurse Kelly who stayed with us every moment way past his shift to make Gary feel comfortable. Dr. Graupner and staff at Lexington Medical Center walked us through every step of the way. Special thanks to our beloved Marie Ernst, who took care of Denver, our family, and the house during this journey.
A private service with full military honors will be held at Fort Jackson National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers or plants, Gary requested any memorials be made to MUSC Hollings Cancer Center at hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/giving or the Lymphoma Leukemia Society at givenow.lls.org/give/342076/#!/donation/checkout to further research and aid to help others affected by cancer.
Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.
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