Ronald E. Martel

Ronald E. Martel CHARLESTOWN — Ronald E. “Soaring Dove” Martel, 87, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020, peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after his courageous fight against cancer. Son of Fred and Elsie Martel, Ron was born on Oct. 1, 1933. He was a lifelong resident of Charlestown, New Hampshire, graduating from Charlestown High School where he played trumpet and studied the arts. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1953, served in the infantry, and was honorably discharged in 1961. He worked at Joy Mfg. until he retired in 1994. He established his own business, Martel’s Barbershop, in 1961, serving his customers in lively conversation, laughter, music, prayer and advice for more than 50 years. He was a man of many talents and interests, including painting, music, fishing, hunting, kayaking, birding and gardening. He was a member of the Masons, Charlestown Historical Society, Life on Main Church, Wobanaki Abenaki Nation, the Old Time Fiddlers, and the founder and leader of the Over the Hill Gang. As a 41-year member of the American Legion Post 57, he was proud to serve as a chaplain over the years at Memorial and Veterans Day activities, and military funerals throughout the region. He found peace and joy every day in playing his guitar, studying his Bible, and fiercely loving his family. He was a devoted husband to Sheila Martel, the love of his life for 45 years. He was the father of Christopher and wife Jennifer Martel (Asbury, Iowa); Robert and wife Myla Martel (Charlestown); Stephanie Fischer (Charlestown); Julie Martel and husband Jason Santiago (Shutesbury, Massachusetts). He was the grandfather of Heather, Ryan, Gavin, Megan, Katlin, Lenard, Morgan, Eleanor, Tiana, Sophia; and great-grandfather of Daniel, Caydence, Kylie, Zane, Javon. He is survived by his sisters, Jeanette King (Charlestown) and Evelyn Crosby (Bellows Falls, Vermont). A private burial will be held in his memory for family members and condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 127, Charlestown, NH 03603. The family wishes to thank Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice for their care and in lieu of flowers, donations may be given to that organization, P.O. Box 2209, New London, NH 03257.