Obituary of George F. Martini

George F. Martini, 90 Co-owner of Martini Shoe Store George F. Martini of Vineland passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 29, 2009 at SJRMC surrounded by his loving family. George was born on September 22, 1919 at his family homestead in Vineland to Frank R. and Lena (Ruberti) Martini. George was a member of the Vineland High School class of 1937. After high school, George worked at Tursini Clothing Factory until he left to join his father in the family business, Martini Shoes. George retired in 1986 in order to devote more time to his family and the things he enjoyed most in life. In his early years, he played baseball and was a member of the "Myrtle Street Shrimps", "D'Ippolito Oilers" and the Vineland City League. Later, he was a coach for the Moose Lodge Team in the Vineland Babe Ruth League. He was also an avid hunter; and was a charter member of the Menantico Gun Club where he was the last surviving original member. He was known for his extremely accurate shooting ability. He enjoyed his role as the family historian and photographed countless family functions and events throughout the years. Gardening was a passion he and his wife Pauline shared, and the beauty of their prized roses bushes are still admired by the family today. He also enjoyed fishing, birdwatching and storytelling. George was actively involved in the community and demonstrated leadership in the following organizations: board member of the Downtown Business & Professional Association and the Vineland Chamber of Commerce, secretary of the Bridgeton Beagle Club, and treasurer of the Cumberland County Federation of Sportsmen Club. He also was a member of the "Brothers of the Brush" during the Vineland Centenial, National Rifle Association (NRA), Sacred Heart Parish, Knights of Columbus and the Grandparents Association of St. Mary's School in East Vineland. George was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Pauline (Pizzo) Martini, and his brother Harry J. Martini. George is survived by his devoted son and daughter-in-law, Frank and Lynn Martini; his beloved grandchildren, Lisa (Martini) Cristelli and husband Fred, Lori Martini, and Frank Martini Jr.; three great-grandchildren, Dominic, Juliana, and Anthony Cristelli; his sister and brother-in-law, Gloria (Martini) and Joseph Gallo; sister-in-laws Marie Martini and Jean Pizzo; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.