Michael D. Martelli

Michael D. Martelli, formerly of Billerica and Somerville, passed away suddenly on March 16, 2026, in Derry, NH. 

Born and raised in Somerville, Michael was the son of the late Marilyn Martelli and late Frank Martelli. Brother of Marilyn Goveia and brother-in-law Phillip, the late Frankie Martelli and sister-in-law Gayla, the late Maria Martelli and stepson to Jeannie Martelli.  Son-in-law to John O'Neil, brother-in law to Debbie O'Neil, Linda and Dan Albertelli, Kathy and Sean Lyons, and Beth and Bob Learson. He was also survied by many neices and nephews. 

Michael grew up on Allen Street, playing until the streetlights came on, and getting into just enough mischief with friends to make the memories unforgettable. Music was deeply engrained in his soul and always played a major role in him and his family's life. He took pride in his endless stories of the band days. Everyone who knew him appreciated his love of song writing and poetry. He took center stage at endless big events to showcase his artistic and personal writings.

One of the brightest moments of his youth was a trip to Argusto, Italy, where he stayed with his grandfather, Nonno, and wandered the streets of the city—creating memories of adventure that stayed with him for a lifetime.

Following his passion, he made Mike Perfecto Auto Body a reality, turning his lifelong love of working on cars into a place of pride and purpose, showcasing the joy he found in hands-on craftmanship. It wasn’t just work—it was a reflection of his motivation and faith in his own potential.

After meeting Peggie O’Neil, it wasn’t long before they married and welcomed their daughter, Ashley. They spent many happy years together as a family in Malden and Billerica. Memorable vacations included cruises, spending time in Laconia and the yearly Martelli gatherings. Michael immediately and naturally blended into his extended family and continued to support them into his later years. Ashley and her dad loved going to Fenway to cheer on the Red Sox, playing darts, attending concerts, Father's day camp trips, and adventures with Ashley's daughters that always ended with a pizza. Ashley’s husband, Ryan, held the same place in his heart as a son would.

Climbing his way up the ladder for the MBTA as a bus driver, it was a job he was bittersweet to retire from after 30 years. He always said he wanted to write a book about the countless tales of his daily experiences. Lasting friendships were formed during that time, many being challenged to a game of pool on breaks. A prominent friend being Artie Hunt - they kept in touch and spoke on the phone every day.  

He took great pride in his two granddaughters Everleigh and Freya Sylvia and grandpups Zeppelin and Lotus. They were a source of happiness and filled his life with purpose as Grandpa and Grandpaw.

Starting a new chapter of his life, Michael moved to Derry, New Hampshire. He loved his property - tending to his garden, having fires in his woodstove, carving "walking branches", taking his motorcycle out whenever the weather allowed, no matter the time of year, and forming new friendships in the neighborhood.

A funeral procession for Michael will commence from the George L. Doherty Home, located at 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville, on Monday morning, March 23, 2026, at 9:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Church in Somerville (Union Sq.) at 10:00 AM. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Funeral Home from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Interment will take place at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge.

In lieu of flowers, go buy a scratch ticket! He never won that million dollars he was chasing, so someone has to.