John Papazian Martin

Martin, John Papazian, founder of Martin's Food Supermarkets and John Martin Restaurants passed away in Boca Raton, FL, on November 13, 2010 of natural causes. He was 93. John was born on August 25, 1917. He was the son of Armenian immigrants who came to Portland, Maine in the early 1900's. He attended Portland High School and enlisted in the army and became part of a great generation who served in World War II. Upon returning from service John started the 20th Century Supermarket in Maine. John was recognized early for his unique marketing skills. As an example of his personal touch in business, for a period of time he sent roses to every new mother in Portland Maine. John built a chain of supermarkets that he sold to Hannaford Brothers in the early 1970's. He then began his second career in the restaurant business creating John Martin's Restaurants. The restaurant business was John's first love and over the next ten years he developed a chain of restaurants and motels in Maine, Massachusetts and NH. John translated his merchandising and business skills from the grocery business into his restaurants creating a lasting impression within the restaurant industry. John's attention to detail and always striving for perfection became a hallmark of his business legacy. In 1985 he sold his restaurants and divided his time between Maine and Florida where he eventually retired. Over the years John created thousands of jobs for his many associates and was always proud when years later many opened and owned their own successful restaurants. John lived a long, successful and full life and often said he had no regrets. His life in Boca Raton was spent with his devoted wife Liza and they shared many years of happiness together. John was a member of the Boca Raton Resort and Club and generously supported his favorite charities. John was an amazing man. We will all miss him and we're blessed to have had him as part of our lives. John was pre deceased by his first wife of many years Sybil A. Martin. He is survived by his beloved wife Liza Martin of Boca Raton Florida, his children Andrea Martin of New York, Marcia Martin and her husband Manuel Galaviz of Toronto, Peter Martin and wife Melinda Martin of Winslow Maine, Katelyn Martin of Boston and grandchildren Jack and Joe Dolman of Los Angeles and Emily and Molly Martin of Winslow, Maine. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 20th at St. Jude Church. In lieu flowers donations can be sent to Hospice by the Sea, 1531 W. Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton FL 33486. Babione Funeral Home, Boca Raton, FL.