1924 – 2013

RUMFORD — Anthony W. Martin, 89, of Dixfield, passed away on Tuesday, July 23, at Rumford Hospital with family member at his side.

He was born at home on April 29, 1924, son of the late Anthony M. Martin and Marie R. (Singer) Martin of Mexico.

Tony, or “Wally” as he was affectionately called by family and friends, held many jobs growing up — selling newspapers, caddying at the Mexico Golf Links and delivering milk for Ferlands Dairy. At 16, he worked for the NYA in the machine shop on the Island Division Rumford Mill making submarine plates.

After graduating from Mexico High School in 1942, he went to work at Oxford Paper Co., where he was soon drafted into the Army in March 1943, serving in G Company, 42nd Infantry, 42nd Rainbow Division in Europe. After the war, he returned home in 1947, joined the Maine National Guard in Rumford and graduated with honors from the Non-Commissioned Officers School at Fort Dix. He returned home to the mill and retired after 46 years.

He was a man who dedicated many years of service to the Rumford, Mexico and Dixfield area, whether as a constable, a Dixfield police officer, Oxford County Reserve Deputy Sheriff or newspaper reporter. He was a member of the Dixfield community for over 50 years, serving as a town selectmen, and on the planning board and finance committee.

As a World War II veteran, he had been past commander of the American Legion Post 100 and past commander of Chapter 21 D.A.V. in Rumford, and a life member of all.

Tony enjoyed talking to anyone, putting a smile on everyone’s face he met, or giving five dollars to a child or donations to area organizations. He loved to contribute where he could and how he could. He was a proud man who loved the time shared with his family, dear friends and organizations.

Tony is survived by his eight children, Susan B. Voter and husband, Wendal, of Strong; Kathy A. Martin and companion, Sue Enman, of Dixfield; Kim L. Sanborn and husband, Bill; Twila L. Frye and husband, Richard, of Alaska; Paul A. Martin and wife, Dawn, of Auburn; Craig W. Martin of Yarmouth and his companion, Stacy Dostie, of Sabattus; Diana M. Rivard and husband, Pat, of Albany Township; and Perdita I. Wehrheim and husband, Horst, of Germany; 12 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Fumiko Whitehouse of Mexico.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife of 43 years, Sandra F. (Frost) Martin; and his four brothers and four sisters.

Words of condolence and tribute may be shared with his family and friends on his tribute wall at www.wilesrc.com.