Samuel L. Martel

Samuel L. Martel, 96, died May 16, 2008, surrounded by his family.

Mr. Martel was born on October 15, 1911, in Manchester, NH, the son of the late Thomas and Florida (Bellerose) Martel.

Mr. Martel was employed as superintendent for Blanchard Stebbins Construction Company, where he worked from 1954 until his retirement in 1974. Mr. Martel was a 66 year member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters.

He was a native American Abenaki and his native American name was Awasowi which means "Little Bear".

He enjoyed traveling and taking trips to Las Vegas and Mohegan Sun. Mr.
Martel was an avid card player and was state cribbage champion. He also enjoyed playing poker and solitaire.

Family members include; his wife of 65 years, Irene (Beaulieu) Martel, of Goffstown; 4 sons, Samuel Martel, of Oak Brook, IL; Robert Martel, of Dunbarton; Victor Martel, of Goffstown; Leo Martel, of Dunbarton; 4 daughters, Rita Anderson, of Atkinson, NH; Eva L. Martel, of Goffstown; Patricia Frizzle, of New Durham; Claire Lafond, of Rockwall; TX; 25 grandchildren 27 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, 1 brother, Raymond Martel, of Manchester, 3 sisters, Marie Therrien, of Manchester; Dora Raymond, of Manchester; Cecile Edwards, of Somersworth, NH; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Martel was predeceased by his son, Paul Martel, and by his daughter, Jeanne Dussault.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be Tuesday, May 20, from 2 - 4 P.M. and 7 -
9 P.M. at Phaneuf Funeral Home, 250 Coolidge Avenue, in Manchester. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Wednesday, 10 A.M. at The Parish of the Transfiguration, Kelley Street, in Manchester. Committal prayers will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum, in Manchester.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium.