Martin R. Koldyke, Jr.

Martin R. Koldyke, Jr.
Clemson, SC

Martin R Koldyke, Jr. of 124 Knight Circle, Clemson South Carolina, died peacefully Wednesday morning, May 24, 2023 at the home of his daughter in Myrtle Beach South Carolina. He was 93 years old.

The son of a Dutch Immigrant, Martin Renses Koldyke and Ellen Fern Anderson, he was born in Marion Indiana. Working as a dairyman and short order cook, he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Ball State University and later his Masters Degree in Education Administration from Clemson University.

In 1952 he began his military career in the United States Air Force, retiring after twenty years of distinguished service. He was awarded the Joint Service and Air Force Commendation Medal, the Viet Nam Service and Campaign Medal and Bronze Service Stars for two Air offenses. In 1973 he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel and began a career with Clemson University in the College of Education.

He retired in 1991, affording him the opportunity to enjoy his many interests including spending time with family and friends at his lake Hartwell house, trips to the coast, good food, nature, animals, landscaping and genealogy. After extensive research, he wrote a book for the family tracing their Dutch heritage.

A kind and generous man, he gave what he could to several charities and organizations, donating time to Meals on Wheels and the Boy Scouts of America.

In addition to his beloved wife of 57 years, Martin was predeceased by his three sisters and only brother. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He is survived by his three children, one granddaughter and two great grandchildren, Raylanda Lynn, Eric Martin, Brian Bennet and wife Tamara McCoy Koldyke; Michelle Storen Burkholder and husband Travis Charles Burkholder, Ella Catherine and Sadie Marie Burkholder.

He had an insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge. With a strong faith, he remained upbeat and cheerful in the face of adversity, living life to the fullest by his motto “ never stop dreaming.”

He will be missed and remembered with love and admiration always.

Memorial services with full military honors will be held at 2 pm, on Sunday, May 28, 2023 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, 108 Cross Creek Road, Central, South Carolina 29630. A committal service will be held at a later date in Woodland Cemetery on the campus of Clemson University.

Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home And Cremations is assisting the family.