Donald J. Martin

MARTIN, DONALD J., 85, passed away Sunday morning at home in his sleep. He had just celebrated his 62nd anniversary two week earlier to Alice (Hajjar) Martin of Central Falls. Son of the late Gap and Hazel, and brother of G. Edward (deceased).

Born in Pawtucket, Mr. Martin gave a lifetime to his country. He served 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, making E-9/Chief Master Sergeant after barely 18 years in uniform (if you’ve served, you know how great that is!). He followed with 25 years in the VA’s Providence Regional Benefit Office, participating in activities as a member of just about every vet’s organization in RI and nearby Mass. He was the veteran’s organizations’ coordinator for the annual Armed Forces night at McCoy Stadium for many years, and once in real retirement, delivered Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island for a decade. He enjoyed coaching his younger sons’ Little League for 10 years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by six very proud children, Steve (Rike) of Topsfield, MA, Greg (Lynn) of Centerville, VA, Kristen Brescia (John) of Rehoboth, MA, Francine Laferriere of North Kingstown, RI, Don Jr. (Nina) of Hingham, MA, and Tom (Lorraine) of East Greenwich, RI. They share his legacy with 10 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.

Funeral service Thursday June 9th at 10:00 am at the Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main St, East Greenwich. Burial with military honors will be in RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. Calling hours: Wednesday June 8th 4:00 -7:00 pm. If you feel the need to do anything to honor his memory, he would be most grateful for a contribution to Meals on Wheels.https://donate.rimeals.org/

Damn it, dad, we miss you already.