Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Robert L. Martin, “Bob”, age 81, a long-time resident of Wilmington and Florida, passed away on October 31, 2024.
Bob was born in Salem, MA, on December 11, 1942; he was the dear son of the late Ellis and Virginia (Coffin) Martin. Bob was raised and educated in Peabody, MA.
Following graduation, Bob, enlisted in the United States Army in January of 1960. He served with Company B 23rd Engineering Battalion overseas in Germany before being honorably discharged in January of 1963 and returned home to his family. Bob continued his service with the Army Reserves until January of 1966.
Bob married his “sweetheart” Ellen Bavuso in May 16, 1955; the couple moved to Wilmington where they raised two wonderful daughters.
Prior to retiring, Bob, worked as a long haul trucker for the Teamsters Union Local #25 in Charlestown for many years. He was also a member of the Wilmington Kiwanis Club for many years and volunteered his time for countless fundraisers.
In his spare time, Bob, enjoyed getting out of the cold New England winters and head south to Pompano Beach, FL, where he enjoyed the the sun, fun, and hanging with family and friends.
Bob was the beloved husband of the late Ellen (Bavuso) Martin, devoted father of Leann Otis & her husband Chuck of Wilmington and Daneen Petrone & her husband Tony of Tewksbury, he was lovingly known as “Gramps” or “Grandpa” to Marina Hubert & her husband Mitch, Katelyn Otis, Nathan Petrone, Meghan Petrone, and Claire Petrone. Bob was the special companion of the late Marcia Olson, dear brother of the late Roy Martin & his wife Elaine Martin of Tewksbury and the late Charles Martin, brother-in-law of Barbara and Charlie “Butch” DeStefano of Wilmington, uncle of Anthony Martin, Duane Martin, Charleen & Brian Portorski, and Kristin Tully. Bob is also survived by his long-time friends Ruthann & John Vanella of Burlington, as well as many other dear friends.
Family and friends will gather at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Tuesday, November 12th for Visitation from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. with a Service to follow. Interment with Military Honors will take place in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380 or on line at info@komen.org.
To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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