Wilfred J. Martel 89, of Upton, and a former longtime Franklin resident, died Wednesday January 3, 2007 at the Woonsocket Health Center in Woonsocket, following a long illness. He was the husband of the late Claire C. (Gauthier) Martel, who died in 1997.
Born in New Market New Hampshire, September 3, 1917 a son of the late Edward and Lea (Rousseau) Martel, he was raised and educated in Pawtucket. He lived in Franklin for more than 27 years, before relocating to Mendon and then to Upton.
He retired in 1986 from the Digital Equipment Company where he worked as an engineer for many years.
He served in the US Army during World War 11, and the Korean War. He attained the rank of Captain, and served in the signal corps. He was awarded the WW11 Victory Medal, the American Defense Medal, the American Theater Medal, and the Korean Service Medal with 1 bronze service star. He was honorably discharged in April of 1952.
He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Mary’s Church in Franklin.
He is survived by 2 sons Stephen J. Martel and his wife Lori of Upton, Michael P. Martel and his wife Donna of Franklin, and 2 grandchildren.
He was the brother of the late Sr. Theodora Martel, Gabrielle Sweeney, and Leonie Chamberlain.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral with military honors on Saturday January 6, 2007 at 9:15AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. with a funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church at 10AM Interment will follow in the family lot in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Franklin.
Calling hours are Friday January 5, 2007 from 4-8PM at the funeral home.
Donations in his memory sent to St. Jude’s Hospital P.O. Box 3704 Memphis, TN 38173-3704 would be appreciated.