Raymond Edmund Martel

Raymond Edmund Martel

December 25, 1942 – February 12, 2026

Raymond “Ray” Edmund Martel, born on Christmas Day in 1942, passed away peacefully from complications of cancer, leaving a legacy defined by devotion to family, love of competition, and deep commitment to community.

A lifelong drag racing enthusiast and proud NHRA participant, Ray came of age during the sport’s golden era. A builder, tuner, and strategist at heart—and a two-time national NHRA race winner—he embraced racing as both craft and culture, carrying its discipline, precision, and camaraderie with him throughout his life.

Ray shared more than 50 years with his beloved wife, Mildred “Millie” Mae Martel, his partner and constant source of strength. Millie preceded him in death in February 2024. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Robert and Charles Martel, and his sister, Elanor McHugh.

In his later years, Ray became a cornerstone of the Trinity Woods Senior Community in Milwaukee. A familiar presence at men’s breakfasts and sheepshead tables, he valued connection and routine. Alongside his dear friend and neighbor Tom Heller, Ray won the inaugural Trinity Woods Bag Toss Tournament. An achievement he took quiet pride in.

Organized and curious by nature, Ray collected state quarters, baseball cards, especially Caitlin Clark rookie cards, and remained deeply engaged in sports throughout his life. His loyalties followed his journey—from the Baltimore Orioles, to the Houston Astros, to the Milwaukee Brewers—but he was, and always would be, a Dallas Cowboys fan.

Above all, Ray was a proud family man. He cherished time with his grandchildren. Sharing special outings with his only granddaughter, Kate; forming a close bond with Aiden; embracing Chelsea soccer through Liam; and celebrating Nolan’s “uniqueness,” a word he coined with affection and humor late in life. He loved his daughter-in-law, Hayley, deeply, becoming a devoted father figure to her for more than a decade after the loss of her own father. Ray was especially proud of his son, Brian, and the man and entrepreneur he became—a reflection of the values, grit, and work ethic Ray lived every day.

Ray also embraced his role as an additional grandfather to Wayne and Janet Linhart’s sons, Jake and Dylan, and to Erik and Iria Doescher’s children, Katharine, Lukas, Lennon, Keira, and Kassidy. His steady presence, encouragement, and pride extended well beyond his immediate family.

He is survived by his son, Brian Martel, and daughter-in-law, Hayley Martel; grandchildren, Liam Martel, Aiden Martel, Nolan Martel, and Kate Martel; and members of the extended Martel, McHugh, and Linhart families, including Ann Johnson; Carol (Gerald) Smith; Sandra Martel (Steven Wells); Barbara (Mark) Puglisi; Michael (Susan) McHugh; Mary Teresa (Henry Jerscheid); Stephen (Stephanie) McHugh; Daniel McHugh; and Wayne (Janet) Linhart, who were like a son and daughter to him.

Raymond Edmund Martel lived with intention, humor, and heart. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.