Martin J Watts

Martin J. "Marty" Watts, 57, of Girard, passed away Saturday, September 22, 2012 at his home. He was born December 11, 1954 in Youngstown, Ohio, the son of the late Luke M. and Anne M. Christopher Watts. As a 1973 graduate of Girard High School, Marty later returned to work for the Girard City Schools as the head of the maintenance department having served for 25 years. He was a devoted caretaker of the schools and their respective facilities. He specialized in devising creative designs for the football field. Marty proudly served in the Army's second armor division, receiving an honorable discharge in 1975. He was a member of St. Rose Church in Girard. Marty was an active member and supporter of all veterans' organizations, the Animal Welfare League, and the Girard Relay for Life. He is survived by his sons, Luke M. (Holly) Watts of Boardman; and Matthew G. Watts of Girard; brothers, Thomas (Renee) Watts of Girard; and Richard Watts of Girard; sisters, Kathleen Kocan of Pittsburgh, PA; and Janice (Pete) Debevc of Ashtabula, Ohio; granddaughter Taylor Madison Watts, with whom he loved spending time. A second granddaughter, Kylie Nicole Watts, is due around Christmas time. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Deborah L. Hrun Watts whom he married December 3, 1977 and passed away September 18, 2011. Marty and Debbie are now reunited eternally in the kingdom of heaven. Known affectionately to his close friends and family as "Dart," Marty was an avid Cleveland sports fan, particularly of the Cleveland Browns. To honor Marty, and in place of calling hours, an open Memorial Mass will be held at St. Rose Church in Girard on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 10:00 AM. Friends and family are encouraged to don brown and orange (colors of the Cleveland Browns) as tribute to Marty's legacy. Interment will be at Girard City Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Blackstone Funeral Home. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, any monetary contributions be made to Girard City Schools c/o Deb and Marty Watts Music Scholarship Fund. Donations can be made directly to the Girard City Schools, Treasurer's Office located at 704 E Prospect St. Girard, OH 44420. A scholarship will be awarded to a Girard High School Senior each year who exemplifies the characteristics of Marty and Deb's life and shares their passions for music. The family would also like to thank the entire community of Girard of which Marty was a very proud member, as well as friends and families from surrounding communities for their love and support. Sincere thanks to the nurses, caregivers, and volunteers at Hospice of the Valley for the comfort and care given to Marty. Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences to the Watts family.