Frank J Martilotti Sr.

Frank J. Martilotti, the beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, July 28th at the age of 87.

He was brought into this world aboard the ocean vessel Vulcania -- the ship that his parents, Emilio and Theresa, and his sister Rose boarded as they fled Europe prior to WWII. The Vulcania departed from Trieste, Italy, then stopped in Naples, Italy, before continuing its voyage to Ellis Island. It was during this voyage from Italy to the United States that Frank made his first appearance. Proud that he was not just “off the boat”, but rather, “born on the boat”, Frank’s life was remarkable from the very beginning. He embodied the spirit of determination and dedication throughout his years, building a meaningful life for his family.

A life-long “east-sider”, he was a proud alumnus of Cass Technical High School in Detroit. There, he was a stalwart member of their marching band, playing the saxophone in several Detroit Thanksgiving Day parades, and where he was voted "Best Dressed" his senior year. After earning his Electrical Engineering degree from Lawrence Tech, Frank worked mainly as an electrical contractor estimator. In this role, he garnered the respect from his colleagues for his sharp mind and strong work ethic. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was an avid sports fan, always ready to cheer on his favorite teams. In addition, Frank was a supporter and season ticket holder to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Pops Concert series. He was so proud of his four seats in row E, where he always occupied the aisle seat. Here, he enjoyed the company of his family and friends who accompanied him and Yvonne for nearly the last 40 years. Additionally, Frank loved playing handball with his various collections of handball players for a greater part of his adult life, having to begrudgingly retire from it at a youthful 86 years old. In the last 22 years, he added bowling to his repertoire of interests and enjoyed his Tuesday afternoons in the men’s league at the DAC as a “super sub.” He absolutely enjoyed the camaraderie that his handball and bowling adventures brought to his life.

Lastly, Frank was profoundly devoted to his family. His preference for a home-cooked, sit-down dinner, almost nightly, was his personal way of having quality time with his family as soon as he arrived home from work. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Yvonne; his children Frank (Colette), Lisa Centner (Geoff) and Domenic (Nicole); his grandchildren Andrew Centner, Adele Centner (Billy Buck) and Joseph Martilotti; his siblings, Rose Perrone, Mary Marchin and Tom Martilotti; and his many nieces and nephews. All of whom, along with his collection of friends, will miss his warmth, energy, smile, and sense of style and perspective.

He willingly and generously supported his family through the very last days of his life. Frank will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his quiet strength, and the deep kindness he showed to everyone he met.

A visitation for Frank will be held Thursday, July 31, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at A.H Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236. A prayer service will occur Thursday, July 31, 2025 from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236. A visitation will occur Friday, August 1, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at St Paul on the Lake Catholic Church, 157 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236. A funeral service will occur Friday, August 1, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM at St Paul on the Lake Catholic Church, 157 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.