Gilbert Anthony "Bud" Martello Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gilbert Anthony Martello Jr., affectionately known as Bud, who left us on January 5, 2026, at the age of 88. Bud was born on December 15, 1937, in Ashtabula, Ohio. He graduated from The Ohio State University in 1959. Shortly after graduation, Bud began a career in sales. He retired from BF Goodrich in 2002.

Foremost, Bud was a faithful and devoted family man. He and his loving wife were married for 62 years and raised 5 children together. Bud was quiet, selfless, and resolute in providing for his family. He sacrificed without asking for anything in return. "Poppa Bud" helped care for his grandchildren after his retirement, which brought him immense joy. In his free time, Bud also enjoyed writing about community events for the Lake County Gazette and the Sun Times.

Bud was a founding member of St. Justin Martyr Church and played a vital role in securing funding for construction of the church building. He shared his faith for several years as a teacher in the Parish School of Religion and served as a proud member of the Holy Name Society. He also volunteered countless hours in support of parish programs and fundraisers.

Bud was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him. Bud is survived by his loving children, Gil (Kim Wiggins) Martello, Pam (Rick) Hershberger, Jane (Ron McConnell) Warner, Al (Tina) Martello, Teri (Jim) Schaffer, his grandchildren, Antonio (Jaime) Martello, Graciela Martello, Alec Wiggins, Evan Wiggins, Gretchen (Steffen Villarma) Hershberger, Alex (William Moodie) Warner, Gary Warner, Vince (Mackenzie Henry) Martello, Dominic (Jose Alpizar) Martello, Mia Martello, Haley (Justin Alves) Schaffer, Brooks (Olivia) Schaffer, Ryan Schaffer and Jackson Schaffer, his great grandchildren, Blaze, Autumn, and Caleb, his siblings, Sandra Schweizer and Nicholas (Betsy) Martello.

Bud was preceded in death by his loving wife, Alfreda Martello (Merlene), his grandchild, Gilbert Martello IV, and his parents, Gilbert Sr. and Theresa Martello.

In honor of Bud's life, a visitation will take place at Monreal Srnick Funerals & Cremations, 35400 Curtis Blvd., Eastlake, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3-7 PM. Family and friends are invited to gather to pay their respects and share fond memories.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Justin Martyr Church, 35711 Stevens Blvd., Eastlake on January 14, 2026, at 11 AM. Following the service, Bud will be laid to rest in All Souls Cemetery, Chardon Twp.

As we say goodbye, we remember the joy he brought into our lives and the love he shared
with everyone around him. He will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Justin Martyr for The Angel Scholarship Fund that supports Catholic education.