Kenneth S. Martel of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born on October 24, 1937, in Baltimore to Edith Smith Martel and George Martel. He was the beloved brother of Joan Schmitt, the late William Martel, the late George Martel, and the late Dorothy Hibbard.

He was a star athlete at Patterson Park High School, graduating in 1955. That same year, he entered the United States Air Force and proudly served until his honorable discharge on July 30, 1959. Ken remained a proud veteran throughout his life, as an associate member of the VFW and a supporter of many veteran organizations.

Ken met the love of his life, Patricia Lubertine, on a bench at Patterson Park when they were just 16 years old. They married on September 10, 1960, and shared 58 wonderful years together before Patricia's passing in 2018. Ken passed away just two days after what would have been their 65th wedding anniversary — a testament to the enduring bond they shared.

Together, Pat and Ken had four children. Two sons, Michael Joseph and Scott Michael, passed away in infancy from Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Their two surviving children, Anne Marie and Brian, were described by Ken — just the day before his passing — as "wonderful and weird," a perfect example of his humor and love for family that lasted until the very end.

Ken is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Heather Martel; four grandchildren, Kyle Patrick Martel, Kathlyn Elyse Maslanka, Casey Francis Martel, and Shane Matthew Martel; granddaughter-in-law Rachel Martel; and step-granddaughter Elizabeth Crowley. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and countless close friends who were like family to him.

Ken worked in sales for most of his life and retired in 1997. Retirement brought him great joy — especially his time at his beach houses in Ocean City, Maryland, and Ocean View, Delaware. He loved fishing, boating, carving waterfowl, playing darts, and enjoying endless happy hours filled with laughter, stories, and "good pours" with family and friends.

Ken received many awards over the years, but the one he was most proud of was his induction into the Baltimore Boys of Summer Hall of Fame — a recognition that spoke to both his athletic talent and love of the game.

Memorial donations in Kenneth's name may be made to the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association or the Gary Sinise Foundation, which supports wounded service members and the families of our fallen heroes.

https://smafoundation.org
https://garysinisefoundation.org