Frank Leonard Martel

Frank Leonard Martel, 88, of Davenport, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at the Eagle Point Health Care Center, surrounded by his loving family.

A Visitation for Frank will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport. Funeral services and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Bettendorf. Burial will be at the Rock Island National Cemetery.

Born on November 25, 1937, to Augustine “Augie” and Helen Martel, in Moline, Illinois, Frank enjoyed a vibrant and fulfilling life. He was a 1955 graduate of Moline High School where he played Varsity Basketball and ran Track. He was also proud alumnus of Black Hawk and Drake University, where he pursued his education and showcased his athletic prowess by playing Varsity Basketball. After leaving Drake, he served two years in the United States Army before starting a long career at the Rock Island Arsenal. 

Throughout his life, Frank's interests and hobbies reflected his enthusiasm for family and community. He played many years of softball, and was an active member of the Bettendorf Merchants Bowling League. He bowled for over sixty years, endearingly referring to himself as the "automatic" due to his ability to pick up spares consistently. He was also an enthusiastic participant in the Arsenal Golf League, celebrating a remarkable hole-in-one on Golfmohr's 12th hole in Hampton, Illinois, in 2011.

Frank volunteered for over twenty years at the John Deere Classic and Quad City Open, where he consistently followed his passion for golf. He found joy when he organized leagues for bowling and golf, fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among his peers.

Referred to by his family as a "clothes horse", Frank was a snappy dresser, often seen in his colorful outfits. He took pride in his appearance. He cherished spending time with his family and had an appreciation for live music, often dancing with his beloved partner Bonnie. Additionally, he shared a special bond with his Dad, Augie, as a dedicated Chicago Cubs fan, a loyalty that remained strong throughout his life.

Those left to honor his memory include his significant other of 42 years, Bonnie Ferguson; his children, Jeff (Janelle) Martel, Mike (Laura) Martel, Steven (Ronnie) Martel, Laura (Greg) Pimlott, Joseph Ferguson, Becky (Brian) Kent; his grandchildren, Joshua Martel, Jenna (Logan) Bennison, Ryan Martel, Payton Martel, Peyton Pimlott, Kyle Kent, MacKenzie Kent, Lauren Ferguson, and Lacie Ferguson; his great-grandchild, Palmer; his siblings, Don Martel, Dick Martel, Larry Martel, and Patty Hill.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Augie and Helen Martel; and his siblings, Augie Martel Jr., Dorothy Sotelo, and David Martel.

Frank will be fondly remembered for the love he shared and the joyful moments he created with those around him. His legacy of kindness, humor, and community service will continue to inspire all who knew him.