Martin Essaied peacefully passed with his loved ones surrounding him on February 10, 2020. Martin was born on February 2, 1942 in Tunis, Tunisia. Memories of Martin are left with his wife and the love of his life, Vula Essaied, his Children; Natalie, Anthony, and Ryan. Grandchildren; Violet, Juliet and Cooper Essaied and a lifetime of wonderful friends and neighbors.
Martin or “Martine” as everyone knew him, “a local icon” as some say, lived in several countries and spoke seven fluent languages and gained 100’s of lifelong friends. He and his wife owned 13 restaurants/bars including, Abita Brew Pub, Shooters, Café’ Soleil, Martine’s, and Bentley’s to name the one’s on the Northshore. Over their career they employed more than 1000 employees and there’s no doubt he left a mark on all of their hearts.
Martin and Vula moved to New Orleans in 1983 and shortly after moved to the Northshore in 1984. Unfortunately, after retirement his health rapidly declined due to heart failure and he fought until he took his last breath. “Martin was always known as a man of quiet pride and integrity, with exceptional compassion, whom had never met a stranger. His time was well spent, never taking a second for granted, and always enjoying every moment with the ones he loved. We will forever hear him say, ‘My Baby’ and smile in our memories.”
Martin will be happily remembered on Friday, February 14, 2020 at Grace Funeral Home, 450 Holy Trinity Drive, Covington, LA 70433. A Celebration of Life Cocktail Reception for family & friends will begin at 1:00 PM. At 2:00 PM everyone is encouraged to share a favorite memory during a “Salute to the Martin Memories” followed by a Graveside Service at St. Lazarus of Bethany Memorial Garden with a Repass Reception following at Grace Funeral Home.
Condolences may be offered online at www.gracenorthshore.com