Richard Martini passed away peacefully at the age of 63 on September 13, 2025, surrounded by family. He was a man of great love and loyalty, known for his generosity, humor, and unwavering devotion to his beloved wife, his adoring family, his many friends, and his lifelong career in aircraft maintenance, including many years with Delta Airlines.
Born in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, on August 21, 1962, to Florence and Nicholas Martini, Richard was the youngest of three children and deeply cherished by his sisters, Dolores and Susan. In nearly 40 years of marriage, Richard and his wife Valerie built a life filled with love, laughter, respect, and countless memories. Together, they raised two children, Anthony Martini and Nicole Trunzo (née Martini), while making homes in New York, Florida, and Arizona. In 2024, Nicole and her husband Nick welcomed Richard’s grandson, Rowan Peter Trunzo, who instantly became the light of his life.
Those fortunate enough to know Richard understood what a privilege it was to have him in their lives. He was generous and genuine, someone who always showed up—and asked for nothing in return but respect and kindness, inspiring everyone around him to be better.
Rich’s passions brought color to his life and those around him: a dedicated Formula One and Star Wars fan, the proud fur-father to many German Shepherds, a Peloton enthusiast, the Captain of all pirates, a faithful blood donor, a master baker of cheesecakes, crumb cakes, and Christmas cookies—and, of course, a fixer of all things.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Richard’s life at Valley of the Sun Mortuary in Chandler, AZ, on Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 1–5pm, and Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 11am–1pm. A prayer service will follow from 1-1:30pm, with a graveside service at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his wife Valerie's name to ALS Arizona at https://alsaz.org/ways-to-give/
