Wayne Marton

Wayne Marton passed away unexpectedly at Carilion Roanoke Memorial hospital on November 10, 2026 just a few weeks shy of his 77th birthday. He was born in Somerville, NJ to Koral and Susan Marton. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as brothers Richard Marton and Dennis Marton, granddaughter, Mallory Sheetz, in-laws, extended family and cherished friends. He is survived by his wife, Carol, meeting in high school and married for 56 years, and their children, Tara Marton and Adam Marton, and grandson, Porter Sheetz. Surviving are his brother, Glenn (Linda), sisters-in-law Susan, Annie and many Marton nieces and nephews. He had a lifetime bond with sister-in-law Gail DiPaolo and Ray and their daughters and families.

Wayne received an advanced degree from Fairleigh-Dickinson University in NJ and enjoyed a successful business career that took us to NJ, CA, TN, DE and finally to Giles County, VA—retiring as a division VP of Operations at United Pet Group in Blacksburg, VA.

A husband, a dad, a grandad, a brother, an in-law, an uncle, a giving friend, a hard-working career man, and so much more. He loved the sport of baseball and was a devoted NY Yankees fan (texting thru each game with Ray, play by play). Wayne coached loudly from his seat on the sofa, using his experience from countless hours coaching his daughter and son in softball and baseball. He watched Law & Order episodes on repeat, he loved 60s music, especially the Doors, he was so proud of his property, living out a farmer fantasy. He always made time to spend with his ‘lunch buddies’. He loved to be ‘in control’ but would shed tears when anything touched his heart. A people person, a true extrovert; as Porter said Cool Pop always “kept it interesting”. All who knew him would agree. He held strong opinions and stuck to his values.

Wayne loved his children and grandson beyond measure. He was so proud of the accomplishments of Tara and Adam, of the adults they have become, the lives they have created. To Porter he was Cool Pop, despite not knowing why called this, he thought it was the best grandpop name ever. He expressed love thru actions and has always been there for us all. His passing has left us grieving and adrift.

Special gratitude extends especially to the nurses, and to the medical team providers at Roanoke Memorial hospital for the kindnesses and care they provided Wayne.

In lieu of flowers, because Wayne tended the birds and wildlife diligently, watched them with such pleasure, and because rescued pets have so enriched our lives, donations in his memory can be made to Angels of Assisi, 725 Franklin Rd. SW, Roanoke VA 24016 or to Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke at 5985 Coleman Rd., Roanoke 24018 or to a humane animal rescue organization of your choice.

A visitation will be held for friends of the family on November 20, 2026, from 4-6 pm at Givens Funeral Home, 110 Woodrum St. Pearisburg, VA 24134; givensfuneralhome.com. Our family will hold a celebration of Wayne’s life in the spring of 2027.