Robert E. Martel

Robert E. Martel

Concord, NH - Robert E. Martel, age 91, of Josiah Bartlett Road, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 22, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

Born in Concord, NH, Robert was the son of the late Charles and Irene (Beck) Martel. A proud American and devoted family man, Robert lived a life of service, love, and quiet strength. He served his country with honor in the United States Air Force for over 20 years, with assignments in France, Guam, Okinawa, and at Pease Air Force Base. His time in the military shaped the steady, humble, and dependable man his family and community cherished.

After retiring from the Air Force, Robert continued serving his community as a skilled meat cutter at Souther's Market and Frank and Bob's Market. Alongside his beloved wife Marie, he pursued a shared dream of investing in real estate throughout the Concord area-hard work that kept them busy and bonded until their retirement in 1984.

Retirement brought new adventures. Robert and Marie spent many joyful years traveling across the country in their RV, visiting their daughter Donna and her family at their military assignments, and reconnecting with relatives and friends along the way. In their later years, their greatest joy came from time spent with their daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the heart of their world.

A man of faith, Robert was a devoted Catholic and gave countless hours to his church, both through volunteer work and service. He was a lifelong and faithful member of the Knights of Columbus, Chapter 112, where he found both purpose and fellowship.

Robert was predeceased by his beloved wife of 61 years, Marie "Bernie" (Desmarais) Martel, in 2017. Their love was a constant in both calm and storm, and her passing left a deep void in his heart. He was also predeceased by his son-in-law, Michael Geary; his brothers, Charles "Sonny" Martel and Norman Martel; and his sister, Marjorie "Sis" Asby.

Robert leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering devotion. He is survived by his daughter, Donna Geary of Concord; and six grandchildren who were a great source of pride and joy: Julie Wilcox (Steve) of Penacook, Christopher Geary of Concord, Patricia Gleason (Holly) of Allenstown, Kimberly Abbott (Colin) of Concord, Charles Geary (Kayla) of Hillsborough, and Robert Geary (Elizabeth) of Concord. He was blessed with 14 great-grandchildren: Matthew (Genevieve), Rachel (Cody), Dylan, Alexis (Rafferty), Trentin, Michael (Brianna), Samantha, Riley, Ophelia, Max, Griffin, Palmer, Ava, and Callum; and one great-great-granddaughter, LaNyah. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Robert's family will gather to honor his life on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, beginning with a Memorial Visiting Hour from 9:00 to 9:45 AM at Christ the King Parish, 72 South Main Street, Concord, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. He will be laid to rest with Military Honors at Soucook Cemetery, Concord.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Robert's memory to the American Heart Association at heart.org or to Granite VNA Hospice 30 Pillsbury Street, Concord, NH 03301, whose care and compassion were deeply appreciated in his final days.

The Waters Funeral Home in Concord has the honor of assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.