Martin G. Balboni, age 80, passed away peacefully at home. with his family by his side. He was born on July 4, 1945, in Springfield to the late Carlo and Rose Balboni. He is survived by his loving wife, Gail to whom he was married for 57 years. He is also survived by his three sons and their wives: Carlo (Rebekah) Alameda, CA, Matthew (Laurie) West Springfield, and Nicholas (Tara) Russell. He also leaves behind his seven beloved grandchildren: Giovanni, Delano, Jacob, Vivianne, Leo, Cecelia, and Jesse as well as many loving nieces and nephews who had a special place in his heart.

Marty was reared in the Italian section of North Agawam with his late siblings Joyce Polastri, Ronald Balboni, and is survived by Kenneth Balboni and his wife, Mae.

He grew up in the family business as a baker at Balboni Bakery. Marty was proud of his family business and worked there on weekends during his forty-year career as a high school history, psychology, and social studies teacher in the Chicopee school system.

In his retirement he became an author and columnist writing the book The Opera on King Street and the columns Reflections and Majestic Theatre reviews in the West Springfield Record.

Marty had a passion for politics and activism, participating in civil rights marches and anti-Vietnam War protests to present day No- Kings marches.

Gardening was more than a passion to Marty with his goal to feed his family from his abundant backyard harvest. He could be found almost year-round tending the garden, in his greenhouse, or battling woodchucks.

Marty loved music, everything from doo-wop to rock and roll to opera. He was interested in music history and the story behind the songs.

Later in life Marty became an active member of the UNICO club. He took great joy in taking part in the club activities and fundraisers.

A very special thanks to family friend and caretaker Cindy Spirito. She brought comfort, compassion, and humor during difficult times. We are grateful to Baystate Hospice for their excellent care.

We are so grateful for the joy and laughter Marty brought to our lives and for the love that will forever reside in our hearts.

Calling hours will be held Friday, April 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 10th at 11:00 a.m. at Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home, 1043 Westfield Street, West Springfield. Calling hours will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at St. Thomas Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to UNICO (www.unico.org), It Takes a Village in Huntington, MA (www.hilltownvillage.org), and/or Dakin Animal Shelter (www.dakinhumane.org).