John J Martunas

John J Martunas, 87, of Worcester passed away Saturday, May 23rd 2015 after a brief period of hospitalization. John was born in Worcester, one of 10 children of Marionas and Antanina (Lucas) Martunas. He graduated from Worcester Boys Trade, and was a standout athlete in football. As a young boy, John spent many summers living and working on his sister, Alice's farm. He joined the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II to serve his country. John returned home and worked for the railroad and then the city of Worcester. John accepted a position as a mechanic for the DPW where he worked many years until retirement. John's longtime companion Winifred Kwiatkowski passed away January 17th. He is survived by his five children, Gloria Beachemin and her husband Paul, John J Martunas, Jr, his wife Joanne and their children Alycia, Garrett and Dylan; Rick Martunas, his wife Debra and their children Nicholas, Rick Jr. and Jessica, Cheryl Martunas, and Greg Martunas: 7 great grandchildren; a sister Dorothy "Dottie" LaPrade; Many nieces, and nephews including Robert A. Martunas whom he considered a son and lived with for many years. Besides his parents, eight brothers and sisters pre deceased him. A proud veteran, John was a member or involved in many veterans organizations including the Lithuania War Veterans, VFW's in the Worcester Area and in Florida, and the Disabled War Veterans Chapter #4 in Worcester. John and Winifred loved to travel and notably drove across the United States several times. They spent the summers in Worcester and winters in Mims, Florida. John loved playing cards and socializing with his family and friends. He was also an avid fisherman who loved fishing salt water, ponds, lakes and rivers, especially with his nephew Robert. He was an avid animal lover. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Saturday, May 30th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. follow by a prayer service. Burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the NEADS, Dogs for Disabled Program, P.O.Box 1100 Princeton, Mass 01541. www.neads.org.