Obituary of William M. Martin

William Mannix Martin, age 97, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at the Jewish Home for the Elderly. Bill was born in Bridgeport to the late William and Katherine Mannix Martin and was predeceased by his wife, Julie Bertolino Martin. A graduate of Central High School, he went on to work for Martin Bottle Company, Parson Brothers Plumbing Supply and Union Trust Bank as a courier. Bill was a friendly, caring person and to know him, was to like him. A World War II veteran, he served in the Navy as an armed guard. During this time, he traveled across the North Atlantic several times protecting ships and freighters. On D Day, Bill was a participant in the invasion of Normandy. He was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the European, African, Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with a bronze battle star and the American Campaign Medal. A very talented duck pin bowler, he participated in many tournaments throughout New England and Middle Atlantic states. Bill won several Class A and numerous Class B tournaments. He loved playing golf with his many friends at Tashua Knolls. Bill was a former member of the Hillendale Country Club, the Tashua Knolls Senior Mens' Club and the Greater Bridgeport Old Timers' Association. He was also a parishioner of St. Theresa's Church for 50 years, where he ushered. Bill is survived by his sisters-in-law, Mary Bertolino and Gloria Whalen of Fairfield, cousins, Jewell and George Nafores of California, Harry and Anne Martin of Monroe, Ann and Eric Borglum of Ohio, Mary Ellen Sorrentino of Florida and Mark Harding of Hong Kong and numerous friends. He was most appreciative of the excellent care that he received from Maria Santiago, Donetta Banton and the dedicated staff of Tandet West at the Jewish Home for the Elderly. Bill was most grateful for the visits and prayers he received from Fr. Michael Flynn and members of St. Theresa Healthcare Ministry and Legion of Mary. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Thursday, September 11, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Theresa Church, 5301 Main St., Trumbull. Burial will be held privately.