Martin W Melia, 90, of Worcester, died Thursday Feb. 9th, 2017 at UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester after a short illness. Marty joins his beloved wife Peggy together again forever.

Marty leaves a daughter, Kathleen and her husband David Smith; a son, James W. Melia and his wife Brenda; five grandchildren, David Smith and his wife Heather, Meaghan and Katie Smith, Matthew and Larissa Melia; two great grandchildren, Zoey and Nathan Smith, all of Worcester. He was the son of the late Martin J. and Delia (Mooney) Melia. He leaves two sisters-in-law, Mary Lavin and Mary (Lavin) Tyrrell of Wellesley Hills. He is predeceased by a brother John F. Melia; and sisters-in-law Helen Melia and June Lavin; a brother-in-law Joseph Tyrrell; a nephew, Douglas Melia; and a niece, Patricia Tyrrell. He leaves many nieces and nephews.

Marty graduated from St Peter’s High School. He served his country enlisting in the Army Air Force and joined the 368th Fighter squadron flying the P47 Thunderbolt and finished his service as a mechanic for the squadron. Marty served his city by joining the Worcester Fire Dept. and piloting Engine 13 out of South Division for over 32 years before retiring in 1987.

Marty was a founding member of St. Joan of Arc parish in Worcester. He was an active member of the Worcester County St. Patrick’s Parade Committee. He was a devout Catholic and his faith and Irish heritage were part of his daily life.

Marty was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who enjoyed traveling and vacations down the Cape with his family, which gave him enormous joy. He loved to paint and use his wood working skills to create several works of art that his family will cherish forever.

Marty’s family wishes to thank the staff on the 4th and 7th floor ICU units at UMass Memorial Medical Center as well as the Jewish Rehabilitation Center for their wonderful care and compassion.

Calling hours are Tuesday Feb. 14, 2017 from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St. Worcester. The funeral will be held on Wednesday Feb. 15, 2017 from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln St. Worcester. Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Worcester Fire Department IAFF Local 1009 625 Chandler St., Worcester, MA, 01602.