Thomas Vincent Martini's Obituary
Thomas Vincent Martini – born December 18, 1934 in Providence, RI. The son of Tomas and Rina (Donatello) Martini, he was predeceased by his brothers, Otis and Levio Martini and his sisters, Rita Piccirilli, Constance Vitullo, Jenny Martini and Lucia Young. Tom is survived by his wife, Jewell Martini, his 4 children and grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.
Tom spent 20 years in the U.S. military divided between the Marines (4 years) and the Air Force (16 years). Tom fought in the Korean War and served 3 tours of duty in Vietnam as a UH-1 door gunner and then as the Senior Crew Chief on a C-130 gunship which brought him to the Tampa area. Tom loved being in the military and could be heard telling stories of his years in the service. He was the recipient of 2 Purple Hearts and was presented the Silver Star for extraordinary heroism during combat operations by President Nixon. He served as 1st Sergeant while in the Air Force before retiring in 1973. After his retirement, Tom worked for the Telephone Company, the Florida Department of Transportation, and as a Fish and Wildlife Officer.
Tom loved dogs and always carried dog treats with him wherever he went, making friends with every dog he saw. He also loved 50’s music and line dancing.
Tom passed peacefully with his wife, Jewell by his side at Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care. His funeral service will be held at Bushnell National Cemetery on Wednesday, April 29th at 11:00 am.
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