Martin Harold Barclay

Martin “Marty” Harold Barclay was a kind, loving, and honorable man. A faithful husband, father, and papa. He took very good care of his family and was loved and respected by many. He left this world suddenly on August 1, 2023, at the age of 71. He was born to Harold and Vera Barclay on August 10, 1951, in Big Rapids, Michigan. At the age of five, he and his family moved to Loves Park, IL. Once Marty graduated from high school, he joined the Navy, where he served during the Vietnam War. Shortly after, Marty married the love of his life, and he and Cyndi welcomed two beautiful daughters. Later, Marty continued his education and, with the help of the GI Bill, earned his BS in Business Management with a minor in Chemistry from Rockford College. After working for years at Warner Lambert in Rockford, IL, a corporate restructure interrupted his career. While it was hard on Marty at the time, what he didn’t know was that this event would lead him to his forever work home at Crest Foods in Ashton, IL. Marty was hired as the Director of Quality Assurance and later invited to serve on the Board of Directors, which he considered a great honor. He truly loved working there and was well-liked by many. Marty was also a lover of unique sports and muscle cars, owning and enjoying several throughout his early years. Marty retired in 2014, and soon after, he and Cyndi moved to Surprise, AZ to be closer to their children. He would continue with his hobby for cars, owning a Mini Cooper and, more recently, a mint condition Mazda MX-5. He and Cyndi would cruise Arizona on their Sunday drives or he’d stop by to take the grandkids for a “spin”. He enjoyed many years watching his family grow. To his family, he was their protector, advice giver, and jokester. He loved his family fiercely, and his sentimental side was their favorite. Even though they know life will be difficult without him, they take comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his parents and all the loved ones who have gone before him. They truly believe that God must have had bigger plans for him. They have no doubt that he will be watching over them and will continue to guide them always. Marty is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Cyndi, daughters Kelly (DJ) Clayton and Kari (Jake) Lewellen, his wonderful grandchildren Kennedy, Hayden, Jackson, Zion, Olivia, Eastyn, and Beckett. His brother, Dennis (Rennee) Barclay, and brother-in-law, Greg (Teresa) Jensen. Along with his faithful dog, Sonny, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Marty was preceded in death by his father, Harold Barclay, his mother, Vera (McDowell) Barclay and baby sister. The family is planning a Celebration of Life gathering to honor Marty. This will be held in Illinois at a later date.