In Remembrance: Father Joseph Martin (October 12, 1924 - March 9, 2009)

On March 9, 2009, Father Joseph C. Martin; recovering alcoholic, author, lecturer, and lifelong leader in the fight against addiction, died of heart failure at his home in Havre de Grace, Maryland.

There is no measure of the lives Father Martin has touched. Through his “Chalk Talks” series of lectures and subsequent teachings on “The 12 Steps of AA”, “Relapse”, “Humor in Recovery”, and many others, Father Martin lived out the 12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous through his life’s work. Many of his early lectures were derived from notes he took while in treatment.

His unique blend of humor, practicality, and straight talk enabled Father Martin to explain the often baffling disease in a way anyone could understand. He is credited by some as being one of the first people to espouse the disease concept in such a way. It was this talent for demystifying the complex disease is that made his work so effective and lasting.

His lectures are and have been a staple in the treatment industry, government, and business since he first published “Chalk Talks” in [1972].

Father Martin’s life and its profound impact on the thousands of alcoholics, addicts, and family members who heard him, is a true testament to the 12 steps and to the hope of recovery he carried with him and shared freely with all who would listen. He will be missed and his legacy will live on.

On June 15, 2009, he would have celebrated his 51st year of sobriety. Recovery Superstore, Inc. would like to send our condolences to his many friends and loved ones and say thanks for “Carrying the Message” and “Keep Coming Back”!