Martin L.

KAY, Martin L. Surrounded by his adoring family, Marty passed away on April 8, at the age of 87 after a long and inspirational bout with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. He was always a man of great character, intelligence, generosity and loyalty. He was an unwaveringly devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather; always there for his family as a selfless, unconditionally loving mentor and coach. More importantly, he led and taught by example.

His refusal to bow to adversity, particularly evident in recent years, has provided an indelible lesson of tenacity and perseverance to all those fortunate enough to know him.

Born December 19, 1921 to Martin and Henrietta Katzenstein in New York City, he was the adored younger brother to Ruth (Reiss) and Robert Kay. He attended Horace Mann High School and went on to Cornell University, where he studied engineering.

Married to Dickie Sloman in 1952, they spent the next 57 years together in what can only be characterized as the perfect relationship. In retirement, Marty and Dickie traveled together, played tennis and bridge and participated in numerous volunteer roles with United and White Plains Hospitals and Meals on Wheels.

Marty's children, Patty (Raddock), Peter and Kathy (Gutner) were always at the center of his world and his pride in them was boundless. His love and friendship also made him Dad to their spouses Steve, Sheri and Richard.

Marty had a special relationship with his 10 grandchildren. He loved talking to them and in later years, just being able to sit and watch them play together brought him enormous happiness.

In 1945 Marty took over the reins of his grandfather's company, L. Katzenstein & Co. and ran it successfully for the next 45 years.

Marty was a loyal and loving friend to all.

For enjoyment, Marty loved playing tennis and bridge at Quaker Ridge Country Club, doing the Sunday Times crossword puzzle, and rooting for all New York pro teams (he was always a big baseball fan and equally loved the Yankees and Mets).

Marty was a member of the King Solomon Lodge for 67 years.

His optimism and courage are legacies that will be carried by the generations, present and future, that he helped to create. His family and friends celebrate his life and will dearly miss this extraordinary person.

A memorial service will be held at Ballard-Durand Funeral Home in White Plains on Saturday, April 11 at 1:00 P.M.. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of Westchester, 311 North Street, Suite 204, White Plains, NY 10605 or White Plains Hospital, Davis Avenue at East Post Road, White Plains, NY 10601.