WALTERBORO, S.C. — Glenn Martel, 74, passed away unexpectedly Nov. 3, 2026, in Walterboro, S.C.
Raised in Orwell, Vt., Glenn spent much of his life in the community where the Martel family was a familiar presence. A Vermonter through and through, he maintained a deep affection for his home state and the people and places that shaped his early years.
Glenn was a kind, humble and deeply caring man. Quiet and unassuming, he rarely drew attention to himself despite his many talents. Those closest to him knew his sensitive and compassionate nature, as well as his keen intelligence, curious mind, and wonderfully dry sense of humor. He also possessed an independent spirit and a distinctly Vermont brand of stubbornness.
An outstanding athlete, Glenn earned All-State honors in both baseball and football during high school, batting over .500 in two of his four baseball seasons. He represented Vermont in the 1970 Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl as one of the team’s captains. At the University of Vermont, he was a starting linebacker on the football team for all three years of his eligibility and a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Modest about his accomplishments, Glenn nevertheless cherished his college years, often reminiscing about football, the camaraderie of his teammates, and the friendships he formed with his fraternity brothers.
Glenn had a special affection for animals, particularly his beloved dog, Sydney, who was a cherished companion for years.
An avid reader with a particular love of American history, Glenn enjoyed learning about the people and events that shaped the country. A cross-country trip with his son visiting several national parks and monuments was an experience he spoke of fondly.
Looking to expand on that experience, Glenn set out this year on a new adventure to explore more of America’s natural wonders and historic landmarks. His travels took him to South Carolina, where he spent his final months.
Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Marjorie (Kimberly) Martel, and his brother, Wayne Martel.
He is survived by his son, Kurt Martel; his brothers, Gordon and Neil Martel; his sisters-in-law, Nancy and Shelly Martel; his nieces and nephews, Megan, Kyle, Colby, Riley, and Kaycee; his cousin, Greg Martel; and several other cousins.
Glenn will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and gentle spirit, as well as his sharp mind and quiet humor. He will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Glenn’s memory to one of the following organizations: The Orwell First Response Squad (604 Main Street, Orwell, VT 05760); Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society, Boardman, Middlebury, VT 05753. (https://www.homewardboundanimals.org/donate/); National Parks Conservation Association (https://support.npca.org/page/94933/donate/1?locale=en-US), in support of preserving America’s national parks and monuments for future generations. ◊
