Obituary of Richard E. Martin

Richard Edwin Martin, 91, of Cortland, passed away on December 2, 2022 at the Guthrie Cortland Medical Center. Richard was born on May 1, 1931 to his parents the late Frederick and Minnie (DeSchepper) Martin in Manchester, NY in Ontario County. He was an ambitious and hardworking man who lived his life in a quiet and dignified manner, dedicated to his family and of always putting the needs of others first. He served in the United States Navy, deploying to Korea and Japan. Richard proudly served as a Seabee, the highly revered Naval Construction Battalions, serving under the motto “We Build, We Fight.” The Batallion prides itself on the ability to fight as well as build all necessary infrastructure. Being a Seabee was a high point of pride for Richard througout his life. The skills he mastered both technically and as a leader while in the Navy were the building blocks of what was to come. Richard went back home after his time in the Military and married the love of his life Marian “Veronica” Natoli of Cortland. He not only was beginning to build a beautiful life, but also building a beautiful home for his family, a home that he had up until his time of passing. Richard very much enjoyed maintaining the house especially the landscaping and the outside property. He was a selfless father and husband, and always made time to volunteer his time and talents for the benefit of relatives, friends, and neighbors. Richard made his career as a Union Electrician and was a proud brother of IBEW #43 out of Syracuse and his craftsmanship and affability, along with his dry sense of humor, made him popular among his colleagues. In times of leisure, he enjoyed traveling with his family, watching NASCAR and baseball, particularly the New York Mets. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Veronica; his sons John Frederick (Teresa) Martin, Joseph Richard Martin, and Thomas Christopher Martin; and his sisters Dolores Kommer and Eileen Clements and brother-in-law, James Clements; along with numerous nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday at St. Anthony’s Church of Cortland at 10:30am. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. The family is accepting flowers for the service. Those wishing to send arrangements may do so through a florist of their choice. To offer online condolences, please visit www.wright-beard.com