Donald Robert Martin, 71, passed away Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.
He was born to Robert and Betty Rowan Martin in Wilkes-Barre and was raised in Exeter.
Donnie was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, brother and a cherished friend to many.
He is survived by wife, Jane (Missett) Martin; four sons, Christopher (Kara); Jeffrey (Megan); Bryan (Laine); and Stephen (Brittany); five grandchildren, Brycen, Connor, Brody, Lucy and Reagan; sister, Linda; and brother, William.
He was preceded in death by both his parents; and sister, Roberta.
Throughout his life, Donnie's unparalleled work ethic and his natural ability to make meaningful relationships left an impression on many. Starting work at a young age delivering newspapers (to just about everyone in Exeter in the 1960s, and he remembered them all for years to come), he built his career from the physically demanding work of delivering kegs and carrying shingles to establishing a long and successful career in selling all things mailing and shipping. Forming many relationships with local businesses throughout NEPA, Donnie continued to work hard to provide his clients nothing but the best. Sons Chris and Jeff would eventually join him, forming First Choice Business Solutions in Pittston in 2013.
Never afraid to get his hands dirty, he was always there, tools in-hand, like a member of the cast of "This Old House" (one of Donnie's favorite television pastimes) to help others get things done - anything from a project around the house to a crashed computer, Donnie could handle it and he will be remembered for always being there to lend that helping hand. An active Key Club and Class Reunion Committee member for Wyoming Area Class of 1970, he went on in later years to devote time as an active member of the Pittston Kiwanis. He leaves behind a long legacy of helping others.
The family would like to extend sincere appreciation to the staff at Second Family Memory Care Center who treated Donnie with the utmost dignity, care and respect.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations can be made to Second Family Memory Care Center in Donnie's memory.
A celebration to honor Donnie's life will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Arcaro and Genell, 443 S. Main St., Old Forge. As a tribute to Donnie's love of socializing over coffee and treats (or as he'd say, "kabitzing"), family and friends are welcome to attend, pay their respects and share stories and memories of Donnie over refreshments. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in our hearts.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Howell-Lussi Funeral Home Inc., 509 Wyoming Ave., West Pittston.
Condolences can be left at Howelllussi.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Howell-Lussi Funeral Home.
Joseph Lavery
November 6, 2023
Jane & The Martin Family...I was so sorry to hear of Cousin Donny's passing...I have many fond memories of summer vacations when I would spend with Uncle Bob, Aunt Betty, Donny, Roberta Ann, Linda Lou and Billy in their Exeter home...Donny and I would hang out all day playing baseball, wiffleball, basketball and other sports...I always looked forward to spending my summer vacations with Donny and the rest of my PA family...Until we meet again, Rest in Peace Cousin...Joe & Sharon Lavery
Erik Barrett
November 5, 2023
Donnie was many things to me. He was family, a friend, a mentor, and at times, a father figure. He was instrumental in helping me become a young professional in my mid-twenties while managing me at Pitney Bowes. The lessons he taught me have sustained me well into my adult life. He was simply a solid, honest, and caring man. I am blessed to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with Jane and the boys.
Gene & Dianne Ginley
November 5, 2023
Jane, Dianne and I are sorry to hear of you loss.
Patty Jones
November 4, 2023
Jane, so very sorry to hear of your loss! You are in my thoughts and prayers! Such a nice person. Take time for yourself to heal!
Patty Jones
Kris McNally Williams
November 3, 2023
Sincere condolences to your family. Prayers for comfort, peace and strength.
Jane O´Donnell
November 3, 2023
Jane and family, you´re in my thoughts and prayers at this time of great loss. Be gentle with yourself as you grieve.
Sister Jane
Cindy Scinico
November 2, 2023
Bryan, Laine and family,
I´m very sorry to hear of your Dad´s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
David Zack
November 2, 2023
Dear Jane & family,
Donnie will always be remembered as one of the best people God ever created. As a fellow WA 1970 classmate, I can remember a few nights of mischief making in the Wyoming Valley. If not for Donnie's efforts, the Class Reunions of 2010 & 2015 may not have happened. He will be missed by all who knew him. Sending hugs & prayers for him & all of you. May he R.I.P.
Dave Zack
Karen Zavada Scalzo
November 2, 2023
To Jane and the whole Martin family,
I was deeply shocked to hear the news of my across the street neighbor and great friend through the years. Donnie and I would get together for lunch when I would visit PA, we would remember bygone days and up to date happenings I missed. He was one of the best, always smiling and caring. He will be greatly missed by those of us who knew him, and missed out by those who never got to spend time with him. My most deepest sympathies on such a great loss. May all our years of memories give us solace.
Karen Zavada Scalzo
Suzanne Paternoster
November 1, 2023
Don was a great man, always had a kind word and great stories to tell. He will be missed.
Bill and Annie Kroski
October 31, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. With our deepest sympathy, Bill and Annie Kroski
Bill stout
October 30, 2023
I graduated with Donnie from Wyoming area in 1970 he was a class act and will be missed by all who knew him god bless my friend and Rest In Peace
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