James Joseph Martiny

James Joseph Martiny
February 11, 1932 – September 27, 2025

James Joseph “Jim” Martiny, born in February 1932 in Franklinville, New York, passed away surrounded by family.

From an early age Jim loved music and dancing, with big band music holding a special place in his heart. He was also an avid World War II airplane enthusiast, stamp collector, voracious reader, but perhaps his favorite pastime of all was fishing — not for the glory of the biggest catch, but for the joy of helping others land theirs. His fried bluegill and secret sauce are legendary among family and friends.

Jim married Mary J. Martiny in August of 1979, and they shared 46 amazing years together. He is survived by his children: James Martiny Jr. (Holly), Kathy Martiny, Tom Carpenter, Shelly Downes (Jeff), Tim Carpenter Sr. (Tracey), Terry Carpenter, his brother Robert Martiny (Sandy) of Florida and ten (10) grandchildren.

Those who knew Jim remember his hearty laugh, his enjoyment of a good gin and tonic and great stories of his years with Kiwanis, and the Jay-Cee’s.

Professionally, Jim left his home of Franklinville NY at age 17 and spent 36 years with Belknap Hardware company and concluded his working career at Worthington in 2005. He loved the hardware business and made many friends. He also spent over a decade supporting the Holy Spirit church with ushering and collections.

In retirement he delighted in reading, stamp collecting and, of course, fishing. A lifelong Michigan fan, he and Mary enjoyed attending hockey, basketball and football games for many years, and his pride in the team was reflected everywhere - even in his blue-and-yellow pontoon boat.

Jim will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, love of big band music, dancing and the laughter he brought to every gathering. Family and friends will miss him dearly.

Visitation will occur at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes in Hamburg, October 6th 2025, from 4:00PM-8:00PM, (6:00PM Rosary). Services will be held at Holy Spirit the morning of October 7th, 2025, at 11:00AM (10:00AM gathering). Fr. Jonathan Perrotta will serve as celebrant. The family requests that charitable contributions be made to PBS and any flowers be sent directly to Borek Jennings in Hamburg. Please leave a message of comfort for Jim’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

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