John F. Martella

John F. Martella, 73, longtime Auburn resident, passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, with his loving family by his side.
John leaves his beloved wife of almost 31 years, Rebecca J. (Ethier) Martella; his loving children, Christy Bishop and Todd Bishop, all of Auburn; his cherished grandchildren, Avery, Owen, Lily, and Max; his siblings, Paul Martella and wife Marybeth, David Martella and wife Mary Pat, and Nancy Corrigan and husband Mark; several nieces and nephews, Sharon Martella, Stephen Martella, Daniel Corrigan, and Matthew Martella; several cousins and friends.
John was born in Worcester, son of the late Leo J. and Sabina (Martocci) Martella. He was raised and educated in Worcester, a graduate of North High School. In John's early teens he started work at Memorial Hospital in the Dietary Department. He had many jobs while at Memorial Hospital finally working his way to the Security Department. He attended and graduated from the Massachusetts State Police Academy in the later 1970's and when the newly University of Mass Medical opened its doors John joined the police force. Here he would stay and retired after many years of dedicated service, on December 31, 2012. During his lengthy career he graduated from Quinsigamond Community College where he studied law enforcement.
He was always generous with his time and in his efforts to help others he committed much of his time with the children in the UMass Community. He would visit the Pediatric Oncology Department and the Day Care Center on a regular basis. He coordinated and ran the Toys for Tots program at UMASS for many years. John also participated in the Teddy Bear Clinic at UMASS and was a pioneer in the fingerprinting kits for the kids. He was a kind and selfless soul, who was well-liked by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
His life revolved around his family, especially his grandchildren. In his free time, John enjoyed gardening, and could spend hours on the beach. He enjoyed vacations with his family in Maine, specifically York Beach.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Children's Medical Center, Child Life Fund (Donate Online Here )
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Martella family between 4 – 7 PM on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn. Service and burial will be held privately for his family.