Martin Kane

BOARDMAN - Prayers will begin Tuesday at 9:15 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Angela Merici Church for Martin "Marty" James Kane, 62, who died Thursday evening at the Cleveland Clinic after complications from a stroke.

Marty was born Dec. 15, 1955, in Youngstown, the son of Robert "Bob" and Marie (Guglielm) Kane.

He was a 1973 graduate of Ursuline High School. Marty attended Youngstown State University, and received his bachelor's degree in Business Management from Kennedy Western University.

Marty began his career at Republic Steel, eventually working for Dietrich Industries, American Standard, and finally Polyair Canada, Inc., in both Youngstown and Bardstown, Ky. He retired as a traffic and logistic manager after many years.

Marty was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Church, now St. Angela Merici Church, the A.C.T.I.O.N. Council and former Parish Council member, and a member of the Musicians Union. He has a passion for music and was a very talented musician, having played guitar in local bands both in Youngstown and Bardstown, Ky. Marty was also a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Marty was always caring and giving in life, and with his gift of cornea donation, he will help to restore sight to others.

Marty is survived by his wife, the former Mary Jude Smotrilla, whom he married May 17, 1997; two sons, James Kane and Joseph (Danielle) Kane, both of Youngstown; granddaughter Kendal Kane; brother Robert (Donna) Kane of Boardman; sister-in-law, Sandie Smotrilla of Youngstown; brother-in-law Kevin (JoAnne) Smotrilla of Austintown; niece Maria Kane; and nephews Sean (Annie) Smotrilla and Edward (Kimberly) Smotrilla.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother James Robert Kane; and infant twin boys.

Family and friends may call on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Because of his great love for animals, the family has requested that material tributes take the form of donations to an animal charity organization of the donor's choice.