Martin O. Slattery

1933 - 2025

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Martin "Marty" O. Slattery at his home in Tucson, Arizona. He moved on to eternal life peacefully on Sunday, Nov 9, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Marty was born in Des Moines, Iowa on January 25,1933 to Edward and Germaine (Franciex) Slattery. He attended Roosevelt High School after which he worked at a lumber camp in Valsetz, Oregon before attending Creighton University in Omaha, NE. He then graduated from the University of Iowa with his degree as a Doctor of Dental Surgery.

He married Coe Marie Haggar June 28, 1958 and practiced for 2 years in Perry, Iowa before relocating to Tucson, Arizona in 1960. They then raised three children, first adopting Mike and Dan and were then blessed with John, who was homemade. He practiced as a dentist in Tucson until his retirement in 2000 treating thousands of patients, many of whom became lifelong friends.

He also adopted the University of Arizona Wildcats becoming a rabid fan and supporting all of the teams throughout his life.

He always prioritized his family above all else, never missing an important event. He held conviction to his beliefs even when they were unpopular and always saw every person as a human being deserving compassion and care. His love was unconditional.

He was active in the community as a Rotarian with the Catalina Rotary Club of Tucson starting in 1967 and lasting for decades including serving as the president from 1984 to 1985. He was also involved with the St. Elizabeth Clinic providing free dental care to those in need.

His laughter was contagious although frequently he was the only one that got his own joke.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Frank, Tom and Geri. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Coe, his sister-in-law Karin Haggar, his sons Michael, Dan and John, his daughters-in-law Denise Norton, Ruth Slattery and Gina Slattery, three nieces, two nephews, three grandchildren, two great grandchildren and extended family from Mexico and China.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, November 18th, at Our Lady's Chapel,192 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by making a donation to Catholic Community Services (CCS) or the Gift of Adoption Fund.

Farewell to a wonderful son, husband, brother, father and friend. Our loss is great, but our memories are greater.