Tanner James Martin (age 29) of Pevely, MO passed away on the evening of April 16, 2026. He was surrounded by family and friends after fighting a courageous two-month battle with illness.
Tanner was born on August 28, 1996 in St. Louis, MO to Robert and Kathleen Martin. Tanner went to grade school at St. Joseph (Imperial), high school at St. Pius X, and college at Lewis and Clark where he played baseball.
An avid sports fan, Tanner played baseball, football, basketball, and dabbled in recreational volleyball throughout his life. Baseball was his true passion; he played for over 15 years, concluding his career as a shortstop at Lewis and Clark. He also enjoyed playing golf, bowling, pool, ping pong, and any type of competitive game. He took pride in winning and was a famously spirited competitor. He enjoyed cooking, quality time with his family, and hanging out with his friends, parents, sisters, and nephews. He loved his two cats, Eli and Eloise, and his dog nephew, Ronald. He also loved Blink-182, Angels & Airwaves, Supernatural, and The Office. He was a huge Cubs and Colts fan. His favorite players were Anthony Rizzo and Peyton Manning.
Tanner had the best and most unique sense of humor, and a gift for making people laugh. He was wonderful company, whether he was making light of serious situations or providing a comforting, silent presence. He was extremely kind, compassionate, and selfless, frequently helping strangers and dropping everything to support his family and friends.
He is survived by his parents, Robert and Kathleen Martin; sisters, Haley (Alex) Barnes and Morgan Martin; long-term partner and love of his life Hannah Romano; and his nephews, Oliver and Elliot Barnes, along with many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Anna and James Martin and Audrey and Kenrick Hopkin; his aunt, Krista Fadler; and his cousin and best friend, Justin Kuenz.
Services; Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 10am at St. Joseph Imperial, immediately followed by a celebration of life at the Corpus Christi Center, concluding at 2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation or ArchCity Defenders.
Tanner will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. “Go Cubs, Go!” #21 forever
My heart goes out to Tanner’s family. Although I was not acquainted with him, I know many members of his family. I will pray for peace and strength for them. May Tanner rest in peace.