Bernard "Bernie" Martin

Bernie Martin, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed community member, passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 98. Born on Christmas Day in 1927 in Pittsburgh, Bernie’s life reflected deep dedication and service.

The cherished son of Margaret and Thomas Martin. He attended Munhall High School. He left high school early to serve his country with distinction in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Bernie returned home and finished High School obtaining his GED at Steel Valley Technical School with his focus on Automotive Body Repair. He also began dating Rita McClosky at this time. They were married July 14, 1953. They shared a beautiful journey until her passing in 2017. Together, they raised two children, Thomas (wife Sandi Martin) and Paulette (Irons, husband Bob), who blessed Bernie with three precious grandchildren, Christine Suski (Andrew) and Michael Martin (Abbie), and Shaun Irons. Christine delivered three great grandchildren, Cooper Louise, Wells and Banks. The grandkids fondly called him Pappy Mustache.

As an entrepreneur, he started Maple Auto Body in Homestead. His talents extended beyond work, as he was an avid gardener, hunter, skier, and member of the Seven Springs Ski Patrol. Bernie and Rita attended both Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Munhall and Saint Raymond of the Mountains in Donegal. “To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.” CS Lewis

Bernie was an active member of the American Legion Roadman-White Post 941 and VFW Post 6743. He was the Chaplin of the Honor Guard. He was their last remaining WW II veteran. His volunteer work further reflected his dedication to helping others at Munhall #1 Fire and Rescue, where he rose to the position of chief. He was affectionately known as “Puss” to those he grew up with.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Bernie’s friends who prayed, called, visited, and brought meals.

A memorial service honoring Bernie’s life will take place on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM in VFW Post 6743, 110 Veterans Lane Jones Mills, PA 15646.

The family kindly requests in lieu of flowers that you consider a donation to The Gary Sinise Foundation, P.O. Box 680819, Franklin, TN 37068.

Take time to view this video: www.garysinisefoundation.org/programs/ wwii-veteran-celebrations

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bernard "Bernie" Martin, please visit our floral store.