Archie H. Martell Jr.

Archie H. “Sonny” Martell Jr. with his dog, Bear

KNOX — Archie H. “Sonny” Martell Jr., a civil engineer who served in the Air Force and loved the outdoors, died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. He was 84.

A son of the late Archie and Olive VanWie Martell, he was born on March 12, 1938.

“Archie was the beloved husband of Bonnie Mattice Martell,” his family wrote in a tribute. “After proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force, Archie retired from Hoosick Valley Construction where he was employed as a civil engineer.

“Archie loved the great outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, skiing, and enjoyed the Olympic Games. In addition to his outdoor activities, Archie enjoyed woodworking, cabinet-making and making fly rods. Mr. Martell was an active member in the Early American Engine club.”

In addition to his wife, Bonnie, he is survived by his children, Jennifer Lancia of Windham, Maine; Naomi Martell and her husband, Bill, of Rutland, Vermont; Heather St. Gelais and her husband, Daniel, of Halfmoon, New York; Mark Martell and his wife Dawn, of Whitehall, New York; Mitch Martell and his wife, Leeanne, of Whitehall, New York; Michael Martell of Menands, New York; and Casey Van Alstyne of Guilderland Center, New York.

He is also survived by his brother, Clarence “Hoppy” Martell and his wife, Madeline, and by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

His parents, Archie and Olive VanWie Martell, died before him, as did his infant son, Archie; his son Mathew Martell; his grandson Nathan Martell; and his siblings, Doris, Carol, and LeGrand “Lee” Martell.

He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Bear.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #977,  Post Office Box 461, Altamont, NY 12009 or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

More Obituaries

  • ALTAMONT — Carol Ruth (née Bradt) Guilz, who married her high school sweetheart and was a generous friend, died peacefully at home with her family on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025.

    She was the daughter of the late Edwin and Dorothy (née Mattice) Bradt, formerly of Altamont.

  • DELMAR — George B. Coffey, a man of faith and service, died peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, at Shaker Place in Colonie with his family at his side. He was 105.

  • Rita Jane Garn

    “Rita did not wear purple every day of her life, but it is difficult to remember a time when she didn’t,” her family wrote in a tribute. “Purple represented the regal, outgoing, and joyful spirit that Rita brought to everything she did with her family, friends, and community. 

The Altamont Enterprise is focused on hyper-local, high-quality journalism. We produce free election guides, curate readers' opinion pieces, and engage with important local issues. Subscriptions open full access to our work and make it possible.