John Joseph Martino, age 93, of Cottage Grove, Wis. and Huntley, Ill., died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 16, 2024.
John was born in Chicago in 1931 to Joseph and Anna Martino. He grew up alongside his older brother and best friend, George. In September 1950 at age 19, John joined the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Japan as a Senior Lineman in the 49th Communications Squadron during the Korean War. Upon returning from the war, he studied Commerce at Roosevelt University, graduating in 1957. During his studies, he met his wife, his “honeybun,” Janet Kellerman, at an ice cream shop. They married on January 5, 1958. Together, they raised two children, Jill and Jay, who went on to give them seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
John’s long and successful career in Manufacturing spanned many decades. After serving as Manager of Manufacturing at Stewart-Warner Corporation, John and his family relocated to North Carolina where he worked as Vice President of Operations at Indiana Moulding and Frame Company. After several years in that role, they moved back to the Chicago area where John worked at The Stiffel Company as Director of Manufacturing. John retired in 2002 from Florence Manufacturing Company where he had been the Vice President and General Manager of Operations. He then spent the next 16 years taking life easier and taking good care of the apples and zucchinis at the Jewel in Huntley, Ill., until he finally fully retired in 2018.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Joseph Martino; his brother, George Martino (Patricia); his wife, Janet Martino; and countless wonderful friends. He is survived by his children, Jay Martino (Mary Kay) and Jill Bertera (Robert); his grandchildren, Holly Katt (Jared), Lindsey Rice (Derrick), Janell Picciolo (Michael), Jenna Martino, Joseph Martino, Jaclyn Martino, John Martino; and six beloved great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held at ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 10307 Dundee-Huntley Road, Huntley, Ill., at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024, followed by a Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. Burial will take place immediately after the Mass at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Huntley.
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I was sad to hear of John's passing. Though I only knew him for a short time, his love for his family was abundantly clear. He and his family were a great support to my Dad, Tony Papalia, my sister, Jean Papalia, and me during my Dad's time at Drumlin. May Tony and John continue to enjoy Happy Hours together again!
Jay… sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Michelle and I wish you and your family peace during this time. And I still owe you that beer. Scott
We’re sorry to hear our neighbor has passed away. At least he will now be with his Janet. Rest in peace, John.
Jill, I was saddened to hear about “Zucchini” ending his journey on this planet! I just happened to hear he had passed this past weekend. Had I known of the events that happened, I would have been at the memorial for you and Jay. Please pass my condolences on to your brother for me as well!