On Sept. 11, the family of the late Joe ”Butch” Martin held a tribute to benefit the fund endowed in his memory at the Evanston Community Foundation. More than 75 people gathered at The Terrace Room at Evanston Township High School to remember Mr. Martin, a lifelong Evanston resident who was an administrator of buildings and grounds at ETHS and who died in 2007. Denise Martin, Mr. Martin’s wife, said, “Joe was a passionate, hardworking family man who was always willing to help or encourage everyone. He loved children, was gentle and patient with seniors, believed in the importance of family and helped young men become leaders. Our family established the Fund to honor his legacy and inspire others to do good work.” Ms. Martin organized the event with her children and grandchildren and Mr. Martin’s siblings.
Hecky Powell and James Fuller received Real M.M.E.N. (Men Meeting Evanston’s Needs) Awards by Ms. Martin “to recognize unsung heroes in the community who unselfishly give their time, advice, counsel, resources, skills and other assistance requested or needed by others.” Mr. Fuller died just days after the event.