Jean L. Martel, 79, wife of Ronald P. Martel, of Cosby Manor Rd., Utica, passed away at Upstate Medical Center, Syracuse, on May 23, 2012, after a short illness. Jean was born in Troy, NY, on August 21,1932, the daughter of the late Louis and Florence Salerno. She was raised and educated in Troy, graduating from Troy Catholic Central High School. On September 13, 1953, Jean married Ronald P. Martel in Our Lady of Victory Church, sharing a blessed union of nearly 59 years. She had been employed with American Greetings Card Company. Jean enjoyed bingo, she was a talent seamstress, and an avid reader. She was an excellent cook and baker. Jean enjoyed cheering for the SU Basketball team, but loved watching and cheering for her grandsons playing sports even more. She also enjoyed travelling, especially with her husband or siblings. Jean was happiest when she was with her family, be it with her 6 sisters or with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Mrs. Martel is survived by her beloved husband, Ronald; two daughters and a son-in-law, Nancy and Michael MacDonald of Utica and Patricia Martel of Mohawk, NY; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Ronald Martel and his companion, Karen Livingston of Utica and Paul and Ann Martel of Oriskany, NY; three cherished grandchildren, Craig Martel of Holland Patent and Nathaniel and Samuel Martel, Oriskany. She is also survived by five sisters, Beatrice Manico, Troy, Florence DeBonis, Troy, Norma Graham, DesPlaines, IL, Gloria Stramberg, Menands, and Antoinette Salerno, Lathem; Sisters-in-law, Meryl Popp, Colonie and Irma (and John) Behuniak, Pine Island, FL; as well as by several nieces, nephews, and close friends. Jean is predeceased by a sister, Elizabeth Salerno. Mrs. Martel's funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 29, 2012, at 10:15 AM from the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica and at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utica, where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Utica. Calling hours at the funeral home will be held from 5:00 to 8:00, Monday evening. Donation in Jean's memory would be appreciated to Hospice Siegenthaler Center, New Hartford, NY. The family extends their sincere appreciation to the doctors , nurses, and staff of 10 E Oncology Unit at University Hospital for the care and kindness shown to Jean and her family during her time there.