Martin G. Walton - Class of 1955

Martin G. Walton passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 19, 2023 with his family by his side. Martin was 85 years old. Born on November 21, 1937 to Martin E. and Helen Walton (nee Anderson), he was a beloved husband of 53 years to Patricia A. (nee Upham), loving father to Melanie Walton (William) and cherished grandfather to Olivia Abele.
A resident of Riverside, NJ for the last 30 years, "Marty" was born and raised in the Kensington section of Philadelphia. He attended Mastbaum High School before enlisting in the Navy where he served aboard the USS Salem. The Salem, otherwise known as the "Sea Witch '' by her crew, was an enormous source of pride for Marty. In 2012, after 50 years apart, he took a trip to visit her at her home in Quincy, MA. Remembering every inch, he was able to teach the tour guide a thing or two about her history. After his service, Marty returned to Philadelphia where he worked as a roofer with Local 30A. Then in 1967 he met his "Forever Love."
While working as machinist and mechanic for Mrs. Smith Pie's (later becoming Michele's Bakery) in the Logan section of the city, Marty would often stop in to see his mother at SS Kresge's on Kensington Avenue. This is where he met the absolute love of his life, Patricia. "Pat & Marty" were married in 1969 and moved to the Frankford section of Philadelphia where they raised their daughter Melanie. Being a lover of the water Marty always had a boat. In 1978 they purchased their first new boat and named it the "Melanie IV." For the next 40 years Marty and his family spent all of their free time boating on the Delaware River where they made lifelong friendships that have endured to this day.
In addition to his love of the water Marty also loved animals but had a special affinity for dogs and horses. He loved western movies, especially the classics with John Wayne, Clint Eastwood and Gregory Peck. If you asked him why he watched so many westerns he would tell you it was because of the horses.
Martin's granddaughter Olivia was his shining light. He retired in 1999 so he could be her babysitter and full time "Pop." One of his fondest memories was a trip with his daughter Melanie and Olivia to Virginia where they spent a few days riding in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Marty will always be remembered for his love of family, dedication to friends and unique sense of humor. He was one of a kind and will be missed dearly by all that he loved and all that loved him.
A gathering of family and friends will be held this Thursday, March 23rd from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Givnish of Cinnaminson, 1200 Route 130 North. His Funeral Service will begin at 11 a.m. Military Honors will follow the Funeral Service.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in Martin's name to Samaritan Hospice at samaritannj.org
To share your memories of Marty, please visit www.Givnish.com