Rev. Lawrence Nicholas Martello
Deceased: 2023-08-22
Diocese: CLEVELAND
ICTE Spring: 1996
The Reverend Lawrence N. Martello, a devoted servant of the Lord, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at the age of 76, surrounded by the prayerful support and consolation of the Sacraments, at Mercy Regional Medical Center in Lorain. He was born on February 24, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to his loving parents Nicholas and Grace Martello (nee Leonello).
Lawrence’s journey of faith and service was marked by dedication and compassion. He embarked on his educational journey at Lincoln Elementary, later advancing to Willoughby Junior High School, and finally graduating from Willoughby South High School. His commitment to his calling led him to Borromeo Seminary College in Wickliffe, and subsequently, to St. Mary Seminary in Cleveland.
On June 8, 1974, the transformative moment of his life arrived when he was ordained into the priesthood for the service of the Diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Clarence G. Issenmann at Gesu Church in University Heights. Father Martello’s initial pastoral assignment was as Parochial Vicar of Holy Family Church in Parma. Over the years, his spiritual journey took him to various roles within the church community.
He served as the Chaplain of Lorain Catholic High School, a role he embraced on September 27, 1976, while residing at St. John the Baptist Church in Lorain. During his tenure, he also served as the Chaplain of the Lorain Serra Club, fostering connections within the community. Additionally, he contributed significantly as an Associate Judge and Prosynodal Judge of the Tribunal. His dedication extended to his role as Coordinator of Spiritual Formation within the Permanent Diaconate Program.
Father Martello’s commitment to his ministry was evident as he assumed new responsibilities. On June 27, 1985, he was appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph Church in Strongsville. Later, on March 29, 1989, he became the Pastor of St. Joseph Church in Amherst, where he also fulfilled the role of Administrator of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in South Amherst. His leadership extended beyond his parish, as he presided over the Lorain District as the Presbyteral Convener from 1998 to 2004. His wisdom and insights also earned him a place as a Member of the College of Consultors from 2000 to 2005.
After a lifetime of devoted service, Father Martello retired on June 30, 2015. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and welcoming spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to cross his path. His ability to make everyone feel at home in his presence was a true testament to his compassion and dedication.
He is survived by his beloved brother James F. Martello and his sister, Carol G. (Laney) Martello-Finchum. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Grace Martello.
The wake to honor Father Martello’s memory will commence on Monday, August 28, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church, 200 St. Joseph Drive, Amherst, Ohio 44001, with Vespers, and continue until 7:00 p.m. Bishop Michael Woost will preside over the proceedings, with Father Phil Racco delivering the homily. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church, officiated by Bishop Roger Gries, with Father Joe Hilinski delivering the homily. The interment will follow at 4:00 p.m. at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon, Ohio.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center and the McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home.
Father Lawrence N. Martello’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched with his compassion, faith, and unwavering dedication to his calling. May he rest in eternal peace.
Contributions may be made in memory of Father Martello to the Clergy Health Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland, The Priestly Formation Endowment Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland, or the Education Endowment Fund of St. Joseph Catholic School, Amherst, Ohio.
