Bob Martenis was born in Montclair, New Jersey on December 3, 1934 to Donald and Ethel Martenis.
He is survived by his son, Rob Martenis (Diane); daughter, Jody Hammond; step-daughter, Beth Anderson (Chuck); step-daughter, Leigh Hooker (Dave); grandson, Casey Hammond (Leala); grandson, Zach Hooker; great-granddaughter, Vivian Hammond; sister, Gail Hull (Jack); brother-in-law, Robert Dewsbury; brother-in-law, Carlton Lucy; and many nieces and nephews.
He is also survived by his loving caretaker, Tammy Reilly, whose compassion and unwavering devotion built a lasting bond with him.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Vicky Martenis; parents; son-in-law, Rich Hammond; and sister-in-law, Ann Lucy.
After graduating from Rutgers University, Bob began his career at Exxon as a sales trainee and rose through several supervisory and managerial roles. As Exxon’s National Advertising Manager, he led the “Put a Tiger in Your Tank” campaign, often saying that was the highlight of his career. He later became President and CEO of Screens and Fabricated Metals before joining the Central Texas Higher Education Authority as Executive Director.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was deeply involved in his community. He served as an elder at Saint Andrews–Covenant Presbyterian Church, President of the Wilmington Cape Fear Rotary, President of the Airlie Gardens Foundation Board, a trustee and chairman of Cape Fear Community College, and a board member and chairman of the New Hanover County ABC Board. In 2010, his commitment was recognized with the New Hanover County Volunteer of the Year Award and the Governor’s Volunteer Award.
Bob’s family, friends, and community were his greatest joys in life. Those fortunate to know him experienced his humor and wit firsthand. He truly made the world a smarter and funnier place.
Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare or Saint Andrews–Covenant Presbyterian Church.
