Martin K. Plute
In the evening hours of Sunday, January 23, 2022, the Angels came and escorted Martin K. Plute, 94, to be with his Almighty Father in heaven. He passed away peacefully at a family member’s home in Punta Gorda, Fla., surrounded by his children and family.
Martin was born in Castle Shannon, and raised in Hills Station. He loved his small coal mining town and he often said, “We live in the best and safest place in America!” From a young age he loved playing sports especially football, but World War II was in action while he was in high school. So, he did the noble thing and chose to serve his country.
Martin proudly joined the United States Navy and set sail on the U.S.S. HELENA CA 75, serving 18 months until the end of the war. At 94, he still recalled the names of Navy friends and Petty Officers upon that ship. He enjoyed telling his stories and experiences that he said, “shaped him as a man.”
After marrying the love of his life, he and his darling Mary built quite the legacy, upheld by strong family tradition. He indulged in his wife’s family recipes and loved desserts more than most. His infamous quote, “What’s life worth if we can’t laugh and have fun!” will forever be cherished. He was a charming, honest man with great integrity and loved by all. He had the brightest smile that lit up every room.
Martin was a hard-working coal miner by trade. He was a former president of the SNPJ for many years and did a beautiful job. He loved playing golf. He was a gambling man and passionate about poker. He enjoyed hanging on his deck, listening to music, talking, laughing, and relaxing with family and friends. He was extremely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom he adored.
In his later years, he loved heading to the Villages in Florida for the winters to spend time with his eldest son and daughter-in-law.
Martin was a humorous jokester with great stories. We believe that heaven is now a more joyous place with Martin’s contagious laugh. We will forever keep his spirit alive and carry him in the deepest place of our hearts.
Martin, a devoted husband, was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 wonderful years, Mary Drilyak Plute; parents, Martin and Mary (Drew) Plute; brothers, William (Ethel), and Walter; beloved daughters, Mary Lynn Ptaszynski and Mary Ann.
He is survived by his six children, Randy (Mary Jo), Rob (Julie Romano), Carmie Franjione, Martin (Yvonne), Timothy (Amy), Sandy (Tim Phoenix); 14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones.
Family and friends may pay their respects from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, in Faith Chapel Community Church, 9 Lawrence Street, Lawrence, PA 15055. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1 p.m., with Pastor James O’Brien officiating.
A graveside service will be held Monday, March 7, at 10 a.m. in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, with Military Rites accorded by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #191 of Canonsburg.
Our family extends a heartfelt thank you to the Diesel family for opening their home to us, and all health care providers at Shorepoint Health Hospital.