Obituary published on Legacy.com by Smart Memorial Home - Tilton on Jun. 22, 2023.
Les R. Martin, 75 a resident of
Saugus, MA passed away on Friday, June 16, 2023 while in long term nursing care. He was born in
Lynn, MA on December 10, 1948 - son of the late Leo and Rita (LaFrenier) Martin.
Les was a graduate of Melrose High School. Following graduation he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving his country proudly during the Vietnam war from February 14, 1969 until February 4, 1971 as a Military Police Officer stationed in Italy. Les was also a decorated Sharpshooter (rifle) and Marksman (pistol). He received both the Good Conduct Medal as well as the National Defense Service Medal during his years of service. Les was a master mechanic & owned a successful small business for a number of years before his gradual transition into the United States Postal Service in which he retired from.
Although long since parting ways, Les & the late Sherri (Richardson/Lally) married and went on to have two children spending a number of happy years together raising their family in Everett & Malden, MA. Les spent many of his most memorable, formative years and into adulthood with his parents, siblings, family & friends on Webster Lake in
Franklin, NH in which some of his ashes will eventually be ceremoniously spread.
Although arduous at times, Les was a man that gave more than he was capable of giving in so many ways. Predominantly wheelchair-bound for the latter years of his life, he was the guy that was known to always have treats for pups and lollipops for kids in the side pocket of his wheelchair as he "strolled" through the community that he lived in. He enjoyed tinkering with anything that his very intelligent mind could be challenged with = and almost always prevailed with a solution. He had an affinity towards bad jokes, Old Milwaukee beer and "toys" large & small ranging from battery operated Amazon gimmicks to machine driven mechanical big boy stuff he just loved 'em all:) Les was also an avid NASCAR enthusiast & Dale was his hero.
For many, Les will be remembered for his propensity towards sarcasm, stubbornness or perhaps even conflict at times. But he will be remembered by most for his unwavering love, loyalty & appreciation for those in his circle. And for his remarkable resilience & ability to always attempt taking small pieces of happiness that can be found in life and stitching them together - making the most grateful tapestry of them all
Les was predeceased by his parents, Rita & Leo Martin and his brothers, Richard & Ronald Martin. His family includes his son, Jarrod Martin of Boxford, MA and his daughter, Jennifer Fitzgerald of Melrose, MA and four grandchildren - Jacob & Devin Martin, and Shea & Dylan Fitzgerald (the absolute lights of his life). He is also survived by his dedicated & loving sister, Eleanor Blodgett of
Zephyrhills, FL as well as many nieces & nephews that will miss his truly one of a kind personality and loved him so very much.
Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service with military honors which will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 2:00 PM at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 D.W. Highway (https://www.google.com/maps/search/110+D.W.+Highway?entry=gmail&source=g)
in Boscawen.
A celebration of life will be held directly following his burial at the home of his (late) brother/Webster lake -
Franklin, NH