Dr. Charles "Martin" Asplund's Obituary
Dr. Charles “Martin” Asplund, MD, FACS, FACG, age 91, passed away peacefully at the Poppen Residence in Muskegon, MI on January 31, 2025. He was born on June 7, 1933, to Oscar and Vera (Gallup) Asplund on the family farm in Tustin, MI. A proud grandson of Swedish immigrants, Martin dedicated his life to his vocation as a physician specializing in surgery and gastroenterology.
His education encompassed graduating from Hastings High School (D-average), followed by enrolling at Michigan State University, where he was accepted to medical school prior to graduation. He then attended the University of Michigan Medical School. Dr. Martin’s medical career spanned 65 years from 1960 to 2025, with practice locations including Grand Rapids, Big Rapids, Lakeview, and Ionia in Michigan, as well as Franklin and Plymouth in New Hampshire. Additionally, he completed a research fellowship at the Virginia Mason Medical Center and the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington.
Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Martin was passionate about promoting education, natural preservation and caring for his yard and planting trees each year in “Pam’s Park.” He often found relaxation on one of his many tractors, sometimes even wearing his suit after a long day at work. The family fondly recalls that his tractor skills were not always as refined as his surgical skills. He also enjoyed boating and his extensive reading of history.
On December 18, 1999, he married Pamela (Davis) Bovenkerk, who survives him, along with his children, Nathan (Elba) Asplund and Beth Asplund and granddaughters, Karen Asplund and Sophie Asplund. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Ruth Nicholson, Evelyn Hughes and Jean Culver; and two children Amy and Jeffrey.
A visitation with the family will be held from 4 PM to 7 PM on February 11, 2025, at The Sytsema Chapel at Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 737 Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence 2065 E Mt Garfield Rd, Muskegon, MI 49444, or the Muskegon Rotary Foundation (Scholarship Fund) 380 W. Western Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440. Burial will take place at Sunrise Memorial Gardens.
A June 2025 weekend memorial service is being organized for family and friends to gather to celebrate his life and share fond memories. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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