1947 - 2025
Marty was a man of spirit, warmth, and faith. After supporting himself from a young age through a variety of jobs, he embarked on a spiritual journey that took him through South and Central America, where he served as a Christian missionary. His travels deepened his compassion and love for people, especially within the Spanish-speaking community—a love that remained with him for the rest of his life.
Returning to Boston in the late 1970s, Marty found joy in simple pleasures—roller-skating along the Charles River, sailing with the Community Boating Club, and connecting with others through his ever-present smile. It was while roller-skating in front of the Hatch Shell in 1980 that he met Jane, the love of his life. Two and a half months later, they married, beginning an extraordinary 45-year journey together filled with laughter, love, and four wonderful children.
A devoted husband and father, Marty shared equally in raising his family, playing and watching sports with his children, and supporting every endeavor with pride and enthusiasm. Professionally, he spent more than 25 years at Harvard University as a Financial Associate, where his kindness, dependability, and gentle humor earned him the respect and friendship of many colleagues.
Marty’s zest for life was unmistakable. He was known for his infectious laugh, his sweet tooth (happily indulged by Jane’s baking), and his boundless curiosity about people. A passionate Boston sports fan, he loved cheering on the city’s teams and, in later years, found great joy playing with his four “grand-dogs.”
In addition to his parents, Marty was predeceased by his sister, Gloria Phillips, and brother, Edward. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane, and their four children: Pamela and her partner Patrick Vedder of Canada Lake, NY; Peter and his partner Michael Ahern of Riverside, RI; Rebecca Menard and her husband Jeremy of Monson, MA; and Andrew and his partner Regan Flynn of Arlington, MA. He is also survived by nieces Stephanie and Amy Salant, nephews Henry Perkins and David Pacheco, and many grand-nieces, nephews, and cousins—including Cousin Gary, who was like a brother to him. Marty’s extended family of in-laws held a special place in his heart, particularly his sister-in-law Nancy Sheffer, who provided steadfast love and support in his later years.
The family extends their sincere gratitude to the medical staff at Boston Medical Center, Brighton, for their compassionate care during Marty’s final days.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the First Congregational Church, 725 Washington Street, Holliston. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Marty’s memory may be made to CurePSP (psp.org) or to the First Congregational Church of Holliston (hollistonucc.org).
Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston.
