Martin C. (Marty) Baum was born in the Milwaukee area and spent most of his early years here, attending college here as well. After completing his education he spent a short time living in Atlanta. Upon returning to Milwaukee he became an active member of GAMMA and the bowling league, as well as paying on the softball teams. He then decided to enlist in the naval services to see the world.

Upon completion of his naval career he lived in Virginia with his life partner. They enjoyed traveling, and were very active in the Washington, D.C. gay community. Marty gave a lot of his time and resources for AIDS-related benefit shows in the D.C. area.