Ralph Martin Obituary

New London - Ralph Martin passed away peacefully at his home Aug. 23, 2025, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind Sally, his bride of 71 years; and his son Charles Martin; son Ralph Jr. and Linda Martin; daughter Wendy and Scott Mahon and their daughters, Haley Mahon and Andrea Ryder; and a great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Ryder.

Born in Danvers, Mass., to Anne MacDonald and Joseph Martin, Ralph moved to New London when his father became a member of the Coast Guard Band. Ralph attended local schools and worked as a service manager at NL Buick before his 35-year career as a rigger at Electric Boat.

Ralph's love of cars began early in his life, owning a Jaguar in high school and later a beloved Buick Riviera became a landmark in his driveway. Ralph was a self-taught handyman and he enjoyed working on his home. He enjoyed canoeing, fishing, archery and gardening.

After retiring, Ralph and Sally traveled New England and Canada either on his Honda Goldwing or in their Mazda Miata. Ralph's adventurous spirit took him out on the ocean after accepting an invitation to crew on a sail from Groton to Rockland, Maine, a tall order as he had no sailing experience at the time. Upon his return, he taught himself to sail and purchased his beloved Merlin, a classic blue 30-foot ketch. He and Sally navigated every corner of Fishers Island Sound and he even sailed through the remnants of a hurricane on his way to Block Island. Ralph also took relaxing seriously, spending many hours in the sun by his pool and tending his gardens. But his biggest comfort and joy came from the many cats he rescued over the years. His beloved Pandy stayed by his side until his last breath.

A private celebration of Ralph's life with family and friends will be held soon. Ralph was an ardent lover of cats and other creatures in need. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to an animal welfare organization of your choice.