It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph William Martel. Joseph passed away peacefully on August 2, 2024, at the age of 81. He is survived by his devoted wife, Deborah A. Martel, and his loving children: Barbara Martel Walters (Carrie); Michael Sean Martel (Denni); Shannon L. Martel; Sarah E. Eurice (Billy); and Sandy Sheehan (Alison). He is also survived by his sister, Cindy Roberts-Conder.
Born on January 10, 1943, in Winsted, Connecticut, Joseph lived a life dedicated to his family, his country, and his career. After serving honorably in the United States Navy from July 14, 1961, to July 13, 1967, where he achieved the rank of Radioman Class II, Joseph pursued a successful career as an Engineer, eventually retiring from GTE after 25 years of distinguished service. During his time at GTE, he received multiple awards in the field of cable pressurization, a testament to his outstanding effectiveness and professionalism.
Joseph was known for his boundless enthusiasm, self-motivation, and strong dedication to excellence in all that he did. He was often recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and his exceptional value as a leader and supervisor. Beyond his professional life, Joseph was a man of deep faith and a lover of nature. He found joy in fishing, spending time in the mountains, and watching NASCAR races.
As a proud Navy veteran, Joseph carried the values of service and commitment throughout his life. He was also a cherished member of WestCoast Church in Parrish, Florida, where he formed lifelong friendships and was known for his generosity, kindness, and unwavering support for others.
Joseph was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love and family. He is survived by his grandchildren: Nicky Martel Walters, Ryan Hoffman (Emma); Alex Martel, Zachery Stolze, Tyler Stolze, Hayden Stolze; Ronnie Spears (Jenny), Daniel Spears (Jackie), Abigale Boney; Tyler Williford (Lindsey), Emily Eurice, Alyssa Eurice; Brady Sheehan, and MyKenzie Sheehan. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Lizzie Hoffman, Sylis Spears, Isaiah Spears, Ariya Spears, Leilani Spears, Spencer Spears, Savannah Spears, Sawyer Spears, and Easton Williford.
Preceding Joseph in death were his father, Levi Joseph Andrew Martel, his mother, Alice E. Murnane, his sister, Linda Allen, and his son, Michael Martel.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Brown & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory, 604 43rd St W, Bradenton, FL 34209, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. A burial service for close friends and family will follow at the VA National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, at 1:30 PM. The family will host a reception at the home of Billy & Sarah Eurice, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joseph's memory to the American Heart Association in honor of his granddaughter Alyssa Faye Eurice, to support research and development aimed at curing congenital heart disease.
Joseph's legacy of faith, family, and service above all will continue to inspire and guide all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a generous, kind, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. We will miss you dearly, Joe. May you rest in peace and may your soul fly free.
Until we meet again...
