Ray Martin

Ray Martin, age 90 of Little Falls, died peacefully on Wednesday, October 5, 2022.

Ray was born in Clifton to Leonard and Lenore Martin before moving to Little Falls 46 years ago where he’s resided ever since. Ray served his country in the United States Navy as a 3rd class Engineman during the Korean war. His calling to serve and protect didn’t end there because after his return he elected to volunteer at the Eagle Hose Company #1 of Little Falls New Jersey as a volunteer fireman in 1962. His efforts in the Navy and as a fireman allowed Ray to discover his talents for hands on work which propelled him into his professional career. Ray went on to work as a Service Man for Royfax Corporation in Paramus for several years, and then later Eastman Kodak for 20 years before retiring in 1991. Ray helped us out here at the Vander May Funeral Home for many years and we all will cherish all the laughs and good times he could make out of tough situations.

Ray was a caring man who on April 21, 1956, decided to devote himself to his beloved Dorothy through marriage. They’ve been fortunate to enjoy 66 loving years in each other’s company. Ray found his faith and practiced at the 2nd Reformed Church in Little Falls for many years. He will be remembered as a faithful man with an ability to get a smile on your face no matter how difficult the circumstance. For many years Ray enjoyed supporting his daughter and son-in-law with their glider business called Jersey Ridge Soaring in Blairstown.  He would occasionally take glider flights, they have forms named after him, and he even helped assemble tow ropes for them.

Ray is survived by his wife Dorothy Martin, his daughter Brenda Martin and her husband Kevin of Germantown, MD and more recently Blairstown, NJ along with Ray’s Granddaughters, who lovingly called him “Ponkey” Alison and Ellen. Ray was also the cherished great-grandfather and “Ponkey” of Keagan and Talia. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Ray is predeceased by his brothers John Martin of Westwood and Wilber Martin.

In lieu of flowers those inclined to make a memorial donation in Ray's memory are asked to consider: The Second Reformed Church, 6 Walnut Street, Little Falls, NJ 07424  or  The Little Falls Rescue Squad/Fire Department (click here for the link)