Edward F. Martel Jr. passed away Monday, December 12, 2022 at Brigham & Women’s Hospital after a long battle with several forms of cancer. He was born April 20, 1951 in Vallejo, California. Beloved husband of 36 years and best friend to Debbie (Flynn) Martel.

He leaves his children, Nicolas and Wendy; siblings Joe, Cindy, David, Maddie; grandchildren, Alexandra, Kadin, Kaimira, Mikey, Maddie; in-laws Tom and Sue, Linda and Jack, and Phil; and many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly.

He was predeceased by his parents Edward and Doris (Donahue), his sister Colette, sister-in-law Nancy and nephew Joshua.

Mr. Ed (his favorite nickname) graduated from Waianae High School where he was editor of his yearbook. He had fond memories of early jobs working on an archaeological dig and picking pineapples for Dole. He was so happy to return to Hawaii this year and enjoy the sights from his youth with Debbie, Tom and Sue. He retired from Sanofi (Genzyme) as a quality control specialist.

Ed was known for his love of children. At social gatherings he would often be found holding someone’s baby. Debbie had even come back to their table at restaurants and found Ed holding a baby who he could stop from crying while listening to his gentle voice.

Ed volunteered yearly in Debbie’s classroom, dressing up as the Cat in the Hat and reading to her students. He dressed as Santa for fundraisers and was known for his amazing Halloween display of zombies and other assorted creatures.

Ed loved to fish and be out in the canoe. He was so proud of his catches on the pond behind Linda and Jack’s house. It was a special place for him.

Ed will be fondly remembered by his family, many friends, and co-workers.

The family wishes to thank Ed’s oncologist Dr. Jeffrey Morgan and his team for their care over the last several years; also the staff at St. V’s and Brigham & Women’s, especially his ICU nurse Kristen who provided loving care during Ed’s last days.

A visitation will be held Saturday, December 17, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home. His final resting place will be Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.