John K Martin

John K. Martin, 83, of North Providence, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 6, 2023.  He was the beloved husband of the late Margaret “Peggy” (Hill) Martin.  Born in Teaneck, New Jersey, he was the son of the late John B. Martin and Ruth (Rauch) Martin.

John served proudly in the U.S. Coast Guard for 20 years and retired as a Chief Boatswain’s Mate.  After being inspired by an article he read in 1958, John enlisted immediately.  Many of his duty assignments were in New England including search and rescue around Cape Cod and the islands.  He also served as the lightkeeper at Beavertail Lighthouse from 1967-1969.  Memories of running rescue boats and working aboard ships would always put a smile on his face.

After retiring from the military, John spent another 20 years in law enforcement.  He worked for several agencies in Florida, Maine, and Virginia where he retired as a police Sergeant.  This included completing three different police academies where “the old guy” proved he still had what it took. 

In his retirement years while Peggy was still working as a college professor, they found a new passion in cruising and would find every opportunity possible to go on another cruise. John was gregarious and charming, loved meeting new people, talking, and would always make friends aboard each ship.  

Always ready with a joke, John’s humor was a hallmark of his personality.  He had a quick wit and loved to flash a big smile under his trademark mustache, especially after making a terrible pun. 

A loving and devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he is survived by his children: John W. Martin and wife Kelly (North Providence), Hope Martin (St. Petersburg, FL), and Troy Martin and wife Sarah (Shelton, WA). He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Margaret, Molly, Edward “E.J.”, Stephanie, Kristine, and Troy, as well as his great grandchildren, Anthony, Blake and Hope Elizabeth..  He is also survived by his sister, Joan Trainor (Forked River, NJ).

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 27th, 2023 from 8a.m. to 10a.m., followed immediately by a Prayer Service at 10a.m. in the Maceroni Funeral Home, 1381 Smith St., North Providence.  In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.