Martin Maurer passed peacefully December 20th, 2016 at the tender age of 96. Mr. Maurer, also known by many as "Coach," was born January 19th, 1920 into the family home in Watertown, NY. He was the youngest of five children born to German-American immigrants, George and Catherine Maurer.  Martin was predeceased by his parents as well as siblings, Mary, George, Rose, and John Maurer.

Martin's passion for athletics, academics, and teamwork quickly emerged as he led his Watertown High School teams to undefeated seasons in football, basketball, and baseball.  Two years post high school graduation, Mr. Maurer, as both a player and assistant coach, guided his football teams from Watertown, NY to prestigious tournaments in Florida.  This was an extreme undertaking by all involved during the Great Depression.  His unwavering passion for teamwork and sports was put on hold during World War II.  Martin joined the Army in 1940, and quickly moved through the ranks to the Army Air Corps where he was promoted to officer in the 15th Air Force 374th Bomb Squadron stationed in Europe.  He bravely served his country leading thirty-five aerial combat missions.  His true leadership potential began to emerge with his honorary discharge from the United States Military as a highly decorated officer and veteran.

Martin married Darlene Breeze in Annsville, NC on June 26th, 1944.  With her support and encouragement, he graduated from Springfield College, Massachusetts earning a degree in Physical Education, with the goal of coaching and teaching always in sight.  He joined the Sandy Creek School system in the 1949-1950 school year as a physical education teacher, and later was joined by Darlene, who worked in the elementary school library.  He quickly seized his life-calling of working with the youth and with coaching sports. Martin was seen driving the bus, juggling team schedules, coaching, and founding new teams -boys' and girls'-   both for individual and also team sports. Initially, he was the only coach in the Sandy Creek School system. However, as a result of his innovative thinking and embracing the changes that Title IX brought to athletic programs across the county, many teams, students, and coaches soon thrived.  He retired as Athletic Director in 1979 with much admiration and distinction.

He is honored on the Sandy Creek Central School Wall of Excellence for his accomplishments and dedication.  He was also known throughout the community for his many civic activities.  Among them Martin was a member of the Masons, Sandy Creek Methodist Church and Choir, Frontier League Athletic Association, Elms Golf Club, and VFW.

Together, Martin and Darlene raised and are survived by five sons: David (Mary), Pulaski, NY, George Timothy, Sun River OR, Michael (Dannelle), Applegate CA, Peter, Charlotte, NC, and Paul (Kate), Indianapolis, IN. Darlene predeceased Martin in May 1969.

Martin married Mary P. Campbell of Watertown, NY on August 1st, 1979.  They enjoyed their thirty-three years together with family and friends.   Winters in Florida and trips to the St. Lawrence River were among their many pleasurable times . Mary passed on January 2nd, 2012. They were survived by John (Mary) Stocker, Sackets Harbor, Connie (Rick) Griffith, New Hartford, NY, Kelly (Stephanie) Campbell, Burrville, NY, and Patrick (Debra) Campbell, Chaumont, NY.

Martin is survived by grandson and caregiver Kameron Maurer, along with seventeen other beloved grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Coach Maurer will best be remembered as a champion for making high school sports available for any and all student athletes.  His level-headed approach to integrating scholastics, sports, and citizenship shaped many lives.  Each student was fortunate to have crossed Martin Maurer's career path.  He will always be remembered for his sportsmanship, generosity, progressive innovations, achievement, and tolerance.  He will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to be made to the Sandy Creek Friendship Thrift Shoppe.

Calling Hours will be Saturday April 22, 2017 from 11am - 2pm with a Funeral Service at 2pm at the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will follow at  Woodlawn Cemetery in Sandy Creek, NY.

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