Martin J. "Marty" Walsh

Martin J. "Marty" Walsh, 69, of Bear, Delaware, passed away on July 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A man of boundless energy, sharp wit, and a storyteller who could turn everyday moments into legends, Marty leaves behind a legacy of leadership, laughter, and love. Born in Upland, Pennsylvania, to Bernard and Jean Walsh, Marty’s early years took him from the Pacific Northwest to the Mid-Atlantic, with stops in Seattle and Silver Spring before Delaware became his lifelong home. It was here he planted deep roots—graduating from Claymont High School (Class of ’74)—and carried forward the values of teamwork, perseverance, and faith that would define his life on the field, in the boardroom, and most importantly, with his beloved family. Following his education at the University of Delaware and graduation from Eastern University, Marty built an illustrious career as an automotive consultant, serving as VP for service contract companies for over three decades. His charismatic podium presence made him a sought-after speaker at industry events, where he guided thousands of professionals across North America with his signature humor and genuine enthusiasm. Yet his most fulfilling work came as a sports official. For decades, Marty dedicated himself to football and baseball at every level across Delaware and Maryland, mentoring countless young referees and umpires, instilling in them the values of fairness and respect for the game. He became a pillar of Delaware’s sports community, serving with distinction as President Emeritus of the Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame, and as leader of both the Northern DE Football Officials Association (NDFOA) and the Interstate Baseball Umpires Association (IBUA). A founding member of the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out) and the RUB Club (Referees Umpires Breakfasts), Marty thrived on camaraderie. He was also a gifted entertainer who never missed a chance to sing, lighting up stages for over 20 years with LA Productions alongside performers like Mario Rocco, Norris Smith and Mike Treco. Whether singing, skiing, or cooking, Marty embraced every moment with gusto. Above all, Marty’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his soulmate, Lorrie Alesi; his cherished daughters, Katie (Bill) Houghton and Kristen Walsh; their mother and his lifelong friend, Patricia McCormick; stepson, Anthony (Jordan) Long; and his seven grandchildren: Elle, Mack, Drew, Rudy, Carson, Joey, and Meara. He also leaves behind countless friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews—especially Kelly and Jonathan, who held special places in his heart. Now reunited in heaven with his parents, Bernard and Jean Walsh, and siblings Annedith Harris, Ben Walsh (Jean McCormick, Benny Walsh & Ashley Walsh), George Walsh (Carmen Walsh), and John Walsh (Kelly & Jonathan Walsh), Marty’s legacy lives on through all who loved him. They will forever treasure his stories, wisdom, and larger-than-life presence. Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 1:00-3:00 PM on Thursday, July 31 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, 345 Bear Christiana Road, Bear, DE 19701. A Mass will follow at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested at The Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame in Marty’s memory. https://desports.org/donate/

Martin J. "Marty" Walsh

July 14, 1956 - July 22, 2025

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