Martin Finnerty

FINNERTY, Martin Francis, 87, passed away April 29, 2010. Martin was born to Irish immigrants, Martin and Mary Finnerty, on December 2, 1922 in Chicago, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlette Freeland Finnerty; son, Michael; and five brothers. Martin is survived by three children, Daniel, Patrick (Carol), and Cathleen; two grandsons, Sean and Ryan; the sister of his late wife, Lorraine Hansen and many in-laws, nieces and nephews. Martin was one of five brothers who served in the U.S. Navy, four of whom were deployed during World War II and one during the Korean Conflict. He served in the Pacific Theater. He received a degree in journalism from Marquette University. Martin was employed by the Reynolds Metals Company for 34 years and worked most of his career in sales. He traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe, Asia and Australia, leading Reynolds' efforts in selling machinery that manufactured the first aluminum drink cans. Martin was engaged in his church and community throughout his life, including teaching religious education and serving on the Parish Council at St. Edward's Church, serving as president of the Woodmont Civic Association, coaching Little League football and serving as president of the Richmond Council of the Navy League. A wonderful husband, father and grandfather, he was a person of great integrity, deep faith and commitment to his family. Martin was a proud American who especially appreciated Virginia for its natural beauty and historical significance. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 2, 2010 Bliley's - Central Chapel, 3801 Augusta Ave., Richmond, Va. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 3, 2010 at St. Edward the Confessor Church. Interment will follow at the Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Benedictine High School or St. Gertrude's High School.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.