Martin Robert Szpak Sr., 83, joined His Lord and Savior in Heaven on September 2, 2026. He was the son of the late George and Louise Szpak of Colchester, Connecticut.

Surviving him is his loving wife of 56 years, Mary Ann Szpak, and her four children: daughter, Nicole M. Massaro (Anthony) of North Haven, CT; daughter, Shawn L. Konopka (Robert) of Middlefield, CT; son, Martin R. Szpak, Jr of Wallingford, CT; and daughter, Michelle S. Heffner (David) of Raleigh, NC.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, George P. Szpak. Martin is survived by four other siblings: Eleanor Grzybowski, Marie Connelly, Michael Szpak, and Robert Szpak. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Jonathan Knickerbocker, Zachary Szpak, Jack Konopka, and Paige Konopka.

Martin was born in Bristol, Connecticut, on May 5, 1943. His family moved from Connecticut to Florida, where he graduated from Glendale High School in Glendale, California. He then enlisted in the Navy and served as a combat veteran in the Vietnam War.

After marrying Mary Ann Mullen, they settled down in Wallingford, Connecticut, to raise their four children. They also made a home in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for several years. They moved back to Connecticut to see their grandchildren born and be part of their lives. After decades of hard work providing for his family, he retired to Florida for 10 years before moving to Raleigh, North Carolina, to be closer to family again. A true patriot and Navy man at heart, he found his wife and family to be his true anchor.

Martin had a passion for restoring cars and working on anything mechanical. He enjoyed carpentry, from building large barns to making school desks for his grandchildren. His family often called him "MacGyver," as he loved a challenge and was a problem-solver. Many neighbors and friends sought his knowledge and skills for any issues that arose, and he gladly helped.

Martin leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, service, and friendship. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will live on in the family and friends who loved him.

A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of his proud service with the U.S. Navy’s amphibious forces, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Florida Veterans Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing assistance and support to veterans and their families throughout Florida. Donations may be made online through the Florida Veterans Foundation or mailed to Florida Veterans Foundation, 2601 S. Blair Stone Rd, Suite C300, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001.