Edison, New Jersey
King of the Wisecracks
Brian Martineau was a big guy and a funny man, with a brash sarcastic way about him that cracked people up. But though he was hardly shy about sharing his opinions, especially about the British underground bands in his collection of 5,000 CD's, Mr. Martineau, 37, could still make room for people to be heard. He was the self-appointed one in a crowd who would welcome newcomers at the door, the genial host and all-purpose cook at so many family get-togethers.
His new job as a benefits consultant at Aon opened the way to several firsts: first time in a New York City taxi and a subway, first time as part of the skyline he used to see from his old job in New Jersey, featuring those towers he thought were exciting but kind of intimidating.
He just was not a city person. Mr. Martineau was most comfortable reigning on familiar turf. He grew up in Edison, N.J., and was raising his young family there. He was king of the kitchen, where he prepared Sunday breakfasts and dinner every night for his wife, Bettyann, who got home from work after he did. Home was where a wise- cracking king could show his gentle side: every night before he went to bed, Mr. Martineau made sure he kissed his two children, even though they were asleep.
This year, as every year, when I watched the horrors of that Sept. 11 and listen to the names roll call throughout the day I pray for those who perished. This year I heard the name Brian Martineau recalled. My maiden name is Martineau. It is not a common name but one I will not forget. My prayers will now include you and your family as long as I live. God Bless.
Barbara (Martineau) Gorski
September 11, 2022 | Other
Brian, I cannot believe its 18 years. I still think of you and your family. It really seems like yesterday. RIP until we meet again. May God be with your wife and beautiful children who are now young adults. Gone but never forgotten.
Mary kuhtenia
September 11, 2019 | West Orange, NJ | Coworker
Brian
I still think of you. RIP . I never met you but I look at you as my family. May the Lord continue to keep you.
Cynthia Martineau
August 19, 2014 | Somerdale, NJ
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
S J. Friscia III
August 18, 2014 | Staten Island, NY
I can't seem to find the words to say how much I, along with your family and friends, miss you. I was only 8 when you were taken too soon. I still remember the day like it was yesterday. My third grade teacher stood silent, my mom picked me up from school early, brought me home, turned on the television, and cried. You were the best coworker and friend to my mom, and I thank you for that. You were a wonderful husband and father too. We were blessed to know you and we will meet again someday....
Lauren Quigley
September 10, 2012 | NJ
Brian:
It's been probably 33 years since I last saw you, and 10 years since you've been gone, but you are not forgotten. Rest In Peace old friend.
Gene
Gene Graff
September 11, 2011 | Vancouver, WA
Brian,
Happy 10th Anniversay, you and your family are always in my prayers. Although we never met but worked together for the 9 months prior to this tragic day i feel that I know you. Seeing that smiling face is just how I remember you. I cant believe its 10 yrs already and your children are now teenages, Wow. I still remember that phone call I made to you to tell you about the plane hitting the tower. I since have moved to NJ but Im sure one day we will finally meet. All my prayers to...
Mary Kuhtenia
September 11, 2011 | West Orange
I do not know Brian but we share the same last name Martineau. I have never met another Martineau. I am from St.kitts West Indies. RIP Brian. I wish I met you but not like this. Gone but not forgotten.([email protected])
Cynthia Martineau
September 09, 2011 | NJ
My fondest memories of Brian will be the times we played in Grand Messenger, our high school rock band. Brian had a great passion for music and his friends. I hope he's in peace rocking out in heaven.
Joe Ballarino
September 12, 2010 | Naples, FL
