Rodney Anthony Martone, 65, of Nashua, NH passed away at St. Joseph Hospital surrounded by his family on Friday, July 22, 2016 after a lifetime of heart and kidney problems.
He was the son of John and Aida Martone and grew up in North Andover, MA. He attended Central Catholic High School and Merrimack College where he was known for his booming voice and love of life. He lived in Nashua for his entire married life and enjoyed the youth sports it afforded his family.
He was the beloved husband for 41 years of Patricia Pohlot Martone. They were married on June 14, 1975 and lived their lives in love. Together they had three children: Christopher Andrew who married Lauren Thomas in 2012 and gave him a wonderful grandchild Carter, Kathryn Ann married to Mike Letter in 2009 and together they gave him two beautiful grandchildren Michael and Natalie, and Stephen Anthony who married Angela Romano in 2011. Rod loved his family and was always happy when his children and grandchildren were in the house. The sound of the laughter and chaos always made him smile even when he was sick. He was a loving husband and dedicated father and raised his children with love and taught them to be kind, compassionate and have strong moral principles.
Rod lived his life with humor and respect for others. Everywhere he went he made people smile and remember the “godfather” as he called himself. He loved to talk about his Boston teams, especially the Celtics and some of his favorite memories were going into games with his boys. He was a spirited fan and let his enthusiasm be known. Basketball was a big part of his life and he coached recreational teams and CYO basketball for Immaculate Conception Parish for 30 years. His happiest years were when he was coaching three teams at a time and giving all the referees, especially his great friend Gerry Gadbois a hard time as he refereed the games. He also enjoyed umpiring when his children were young and had no problem striking out his own sons. His children are proud that they can call him their father. He will be missed every day.
Besides his wife, children, and grandchildren he is survived by his mother Aida Martone, sister Maureen Hibbard and her husband Kevin of Naples, Florida, a brother-in-law Joseph Pohlot and his wife Nancy of Mission Viejo, CA, a brother-in-law Bruce Pohlot and wife Helen of Doylestown, PA as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday July 27th from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, Thursday morning at 10 o’clock. Friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Immaculate Conception CYO Basketball. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralservice.com
