Martin Alicandro, Jr. (“Marty”), 79, of Plymouth, MA died on Thursday, March 5, 2015 at Massachusetts General Hospital surrounded by his family at his bedside.
He was born in Cambridge, MA, the son of the late Martino Alicandro and Josephine Cobuzzi. Marty graduated from Rindge Technical School in 1954. After a two-year stint in the Army, Marty returned home and pursued the trade of an auto technician specializing in automatic transmissions. After meeting his soulmate and beloved wife, Barbara Alicandro, formerly Barbara Marinos, of Plymouth, MA, Marty moved to the South Shore and subsequently opened Kingston Automatic Transmission Company, in Kingston, MA with his wife. Never ones to be complacent, Marty and his wife then purchased a GMC Truck franchise which is now located at 5 Kingston Collection Way (formerly Independence Mall Way) in 1968. Through years of hard work, patience and determination, Marty fostered the dealership to be an industry leading performer in the region, as evidenced by the multitude of accolades bestowed upon the dealership by General Motors. Determined to enact change on a larger level, Marty served on several boards and committees at General Motors and was a supporter of local charities in the community. Marty mentored his loving daughter, Christine, who has succeeded Marty as the dealer principal. Through Christine’s leadership, with the ongoing guidance of Marty, Marty’s GMC continues to flourish with the addition of the Isuzu and Buick franchises and its latest renovation. Until his recent illness, Marty’s presence was known to both employees and clients through his almost daily appearances at the dealership, imparting his years of experience, knowledge and work ethic to those around him. Marty truly lived the American dream – he was a self-made, selfless man who achieved success through his work ethic, honesty and loyalty. He always put his family first and instilled a sense of values that are rare to find these days.
Marty’s patience and loyalty were not just exemplified at the dealership. He was one of the original season ticket holders for the New England Patriots in 1960. After tolerating years of disappointing and often heartbreaking seasons through rain, snow, sleet, and occasionally sunshine, very little brought him more joy than being present at three Superbowl victories with family and friends. Win or lose, Marty’s unwavering devotion to the Pats is indicative of his character – loyal ‘til the bitter end.
Marty’s “work hard, play hard” philosophy did not just apply to football on Sundays. Traveling the world with his family revealed Marty’s adventurous side. From Russia, Australia, Brazil, to Asia and Europe, Marty treasured time spent exploring new destinations and cultures and was always a good sport trying new things. He instilled this “travel bug” in his daughters, ensuring that they always take advantage of the opportunity to travel, but also enjoy returning to the lives they have built back home.
Marty will be forever missed by his loving wife of 52 years, Barbara Alicandro, f/k/a Barabara Marinos, of Plymouth, MA, dearly loved daughter, Christine Karnolt, f/k/a Christine Alicandro, her husband Stephen Karnolt and his cherished grandchildren (or monkeys as he lovingly called them) Sophia and Martin (Tino), all of Kingston, MA, dearly loved daughter, Theonie Alicandro, and her wife Amy Spurling, of Cambridge, MA. Marty is also survived by his loving siblings Mary Mullane, of Medford, MA, Connie McNeil, of Maryland, Joseph Alicandro and his wife Ernestine Alicandro, of Somerville, MA, Joanne Kendall and her husband Howard Kendall, of Plymouth, MA, Jean Collins and her husband Dan Collins, of Medford, MA. Marty was predeceased by his brother Ralph Alicandro. Too numerous to name, but by no means any less treasured, are many nieces and nephews.
Marty’s legacy and impact on his family and the local community will be felt for years to come.
Visiting Hours will be held Sunday March 8, 2015 at the Shepherd Funeral Home, 216 Main St. (Rte. 106) Kingston, MA from 3-7pm. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday March 9, 2015 at Christ Church, Plymouth 149 Court St. Plymouth, MA at 11am. Memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association 55 W. Wacker Drive Suite 1150, Chicago Il. 60601.