Martin Francis Walsh

Martin Francis Walsh was born on January 21, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to John and Margaret (nee O'Dea) Walsh. He died Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at Addolorata Villa in the care of Suncrest Hospice in Wheeling, Illinois.

He is survived by his sister Margaret Ruane, his brother, Patrick Walsh, and his brother, James Walsh. Martin was preceded in death by his siblings John Walsh, Anne Marie McCormick, Michael Walsh; and his parents.

Mr. Walsh graduated from Villanova University in PA in 1963. He worked for 39 years for the Department of Defense at the Pentagon before retiring in 2003. He was a brilliant man, and a fantastic scrabble player in multiple clubs in Chicago. Marty was definitely the historian of the family and knew all dates of births, weddings, graduations, and deaths. Everyone was convinced he would be Jeopardy champion if only he had tried out for the show. He was a man of great intellect.

Martin enjoyed traveling, especially his five trips to Ireland. The most memorable was in 1990, with his four brothers, two sisters, and their spouses. While there, they all met their Uncle Marty, his dad's youngest brother, whom he was named after. Marty, Jack, and Marge all climbed Croagh Patrick Mountain. After the rigorous climb, the rest of the family joined them at the pub. After a few pints, Marty missed the barstool and tumbled to the ground. To his credit he did not spill a drop of beer. He was a man of many talents.

Many nieces and nephews visited Marty in Virginia. Everyone was impressed with his knowledge of Washington D.C. Marty always tried to make the experiences special for everyone. He had a swing set installed in the backyard for younger nieces and nephews to make their visits memorable. He was a man of hospitality.

Although he lived in Virginia, he always made it to all family gatherings where he would share stories, and would never turn down a good meal. He was a man of many words.

His final weeks were spent with family in Virginia, and then at Addolorata in Wheeling, Il. He enjoyed looking at old photos and sharing family stories that brought smiles to everyone. He did not like to see others sad and worried. He told his hospice nurse to look after his niece when he noticed she was crying. He had a huge heart and put others before himself. He was a man of compassion.

Uncle Marty was famous for being the emcee at many family gatherings. He led us all in a rendition of The 12 days of Christmas. The tradition started at a Christmas gathering in the 50s; but as the decades progressed, the tradition got bigger and was included in many weddings and anniversary parties regardless of the season. At some point, it became necessary to stand on your chair, hold up a drink and loudly sing "5 Golden Rings". Your family in heaven will join us in singing our final toast to you..Martin Walsh was a man who will be greatly missed.

A private remembrance will be held Saturday, October 29, 2022 at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery followed by a luncheon in an Irish pub where not a drop of beer will be spilled!

Condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or (847) 253-0168.