Obituary of Joseph C. Martin

Joseph Charles Martin, aged 93, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, surrounded by his 8 loving children. Born on July 18, 1930, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Joseph was the cherished son of Margaret and Luke Martin.

Joseph's life was marked by service and dedication. After graduating from Scranton’s South Catholic High School, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving as a Navy Corpsman from 1948 to 1952. Upon his return, he pursued higher education at Scranton University, earning a degree in Biology.

On August 4, 1956, Joseph married the love of his life, Roberta Walsh. Together, they settled in Garnerville, New York, where Joseph began a fulfilling career at Lederle Laboratories in Pearl River, working until his retirement in 1990. The couple raised 8 children and became integral members of the community.

Joseph's commitment to service was evident in every aspect of his life. He played pivotal roles in various community organizations, exemplified by Roberta and his founding membership at St. Gregory Barbarigo Parish in Garnerville, andhis integral involvement in the David B. Roche Fire Company. He was the last surviving Charter Member.  He was a former President, and Secretary/Treasurer of the Board of Fire Commissioners. He spent many years coaching with Haverstraw Little League. Once retired, Joseph continued to volunteer at St. Peter’s People to People for many years. 

Known for his generosity and warm spirit, Joseph was always willing to lend a helping hand. He found joy in simple pleasures, whether cheering for Notre Dame Football, the NY Mets, or supporting his children and grandchildren in their pursuits.

Joseph's legacy of love and kindness lives on through his eight children: Ellen (Rodger) Eckerson, Mary (Martin) Hand, Joseph (Janice), Robert (Nancy), John (UnaMary), Billy (Theresa), Jeanne, and Leslie (Kevin) Hofving. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren  (Christopher, Brandon, Kim, Caileen, Tara, Maura, Martin, Amy, Kelley, Thomas, William, Lauria, Brendan, Erin, John James, Luke, Aisling, Liam, Joseph, Margaret, Bridget, Charlotte, Kevin, Sean, and Keely), and 24 great-grandchildren, as well as his sister Helen Lally, sister-in-law Marilyn Taylor, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joseph was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Roberta, his brothers John, Luke, and Patrick Martin, and several dear in-laws.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, February 15th, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at T.J. McGowan and Sons Funeral Home in Garnerville, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 16th, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Gregory Barbarigo Church, followed by interment at Frederick Loescher Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Gregory Barbarigo or Hospice of Orange and Sullivan in Joseph's honor.