Roger D. Martz, 96, of Poppy Road in Paxinos, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, November 13, 2025 surrounded by friends and family and snuggled with his companion, Junior, the cat.

Born August 11, 1929, in Brooklyn, NY, Roger grew up with the quick wit, on-the-go attitude, and neighborly spirit that would define him for the rest of his life. The son of Charles R. and Minnie I. (Kane) Martz, he carried their values of hard work and generosity into everything he did. He later married the love of his life, Lily (Sorenson) Martz, with whom he shared mutual interests of camping, dining out together, work, and philanthropy.  

Roger began building his life’s path right after his 1948 high school graduation in New York. He worked with the local telephone company as a frameworker and PBX repairman, becoming the dependable guy everyone called when something needed fixing. His talent took him from Manhattan offices to Army bases, serving proudly in the United States Army Signal Corps during the Korean War from 1951–1953.

After returning home, Roger continued his career in telecommunications, eventually joining Bell Telephone of Pennsylvania. He spent decades climbing poles, connecting wires, troubleshooting systems, and building relationships—work that suited his sharp mind and steady hands. When he retired from Bell Telephone in March 1982, it was after a lifetime of service not just to the industry, but to the many coworkers who became lifelong friends.

Community was at the heart of Roger’s days. He was always most alive when he had a place to show up, a group to belong to, and a purpose to fulfill. He was an active member and served as commander of the American Legion Post 201 and VFW Post 1532 in Sunbury, served as a volunteer for the Special Olympics, a member in the Valley of Bloomsburg of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in the 32nd degree, President of Jacob’s cemetery, a proud Freemason for over 70 years in the Brooklyn, NY chapter, and a dedicated leader within the Bell Telephone Pioneers, where he once served as President. He also enjoyed time at the Valley Gun and Country Club, and Washies Fire Company in Danville where his charismatic anecdotes always seemed to travel a little faster than he did.

But the truest joy of Roger’s day was simple: a meal shared with others. He had “his” seat in every restaurant he frequented, “his” usual order at each spot, and a rotating cast of favorite waitresses who made his visits special—always greeting him with a smile, hugs, a song, or a little extra special drink or dessert. For Roger, meals weren’t just meals; they were his social hour, his community gathering. He didn’t just dine—he belonged.

At 96, Roger remained sharp as a tack. He never stopped noticing what needed fixing, who needed help, or where he could lend a hand. He was known as the problem-solver—in some circles “the doctor” - the one who could repair anything, and if he couldn’t, he knew a guy who could. His knack for connection—much like his telephone work—brought people together, kept them talking, and made life just a little brighter for those around him.

Roger is survived by Frank and Debra Martz, their children Logan and Kendra and their spouses Allison and Andrew. Doug and Suzan Martz, their daughters Kelli and Ashley and grandkids Liam and Graham. Keith Martz, his daughters Erin and Karrah, Erin’s partner, Jane, and Karrah’s spouse, Chris. Together they carry forward his humor, on-the-go attitude, and the deep-seated belief that community is something you build every day.

A viewing will be held from 10:00–10:50 a.m. at the Blank Funeral Home, 395 State Street, Sunbury, followed by a Masonic service and the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Mark Powlus. Burial with military honors will take place in Jacobs Cemetery, Paxinos.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to honor his legacy with either organization he was a lifetime member: Mail a check to “VFW Post 1532” PO Box 241, Sunbury, PA 17801. Or support the Freemasons of New York via the Masonic Brotherhood Fund, donate online at nybrotherhoodfund.org/donate.