SOUTH PORTLAND- Ralph Edwin Martin, age 75 passed away on Tuesday January 16, 2024, in Portland, Maine after a 24-year battle with Wegener’s Granulomatosis.
Ralph was born in Portland, Maine on May 12, 1948, the third child of the late Thomas “Toby”, and Abbie (Seiders) Martin. He attended Cape Elizabeth schools and in 1965 on his own accord with the support of his mother enlisted in the Navy during the height of the Vietnam War and after serving for two years, was medically discharged. The Navy remained near and dear to his heart throughout his life. Ralph met his wife Elizabeth “Betty” (Calderwood) Martin in 1965 and the two married on November 30, 1974. During their 60-year relationship they welcomed 4 wonderful children. Ralph was a hard worker and instilled this work ethic into his children. Throughout the years Ralph was employed by Cianbro for many years as well as R. Stewart’s Heavy Hauling Company. In 1991 Ralph became employed by the city of Portland where he remained until his illness in 1999 when he retired. He also began a small moving company with his sons and brother-in-law BEDAR moving, he would carry around those business cards around the rest of his life. Ralph was a member of the VFW and American Legion.
Ralph loved reading, listening to country music, spending time with his family and cousins, attending the yearly family reunions in South Bristol as well as taking his beloved dog Caramel for walks.
Ralph was pre-deceased by his parents Abbie (Seiders) Martin, 1984 and Thomas W. Martin Jr., 1991 as well as his older sister Lois (Martin) Bradeen in 2016.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 49 years Elizabeth “Betty” Martin of South Portland, his four children Kurt Martin and his wife Darlene of Limington, Scott Martin of Arundel, Kristen Robinson of Alna, and Abbie DiPretoro and her husband Chris of South Portland, older brother Thomas W. Martin III and his wife Tammy of Stetson and his 6 grandchildren, Logan and Madison Martin, Zachary MacDonald, Andrew Robinson, Emmett “Sage”, and Liam DiPretoro. As well as his closest cousin Bondie Farrington and his wife Janet of Gray.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Animal Refugee League where he adopted Caramel.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com
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