January 28th, 1922 – September 16th, 2025
Marty was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1922 to Harry and Neomi Gutchigian, both displaced survivors of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Growing up during the Great Depression, he learned resilience early, carrying those lessons of perseverance and gratitude throughout his life. A proud graduate of Northeast High School in Philadelphia, Marty answered his nation’s call to service after the attack on Pearl Harbor, enlisting in the U.S. Navy.

As a Navy Corpsman aboard the USS Tuscaloosa, lovingly known as the “Tusky”, Marty served with valor in World War II. During his time on the “Tusky” they engaged the German and Vichy French fleet at Casablanca during Operation Torch in support of the U.S. led invasion of North Africa, and later escorted critical Allied convoys from Liverpool to Archangel to deliver supplies to the besieged Red Army at Leningrad and Stalingrad. Twice wounded in combat, he earned the Purple Heart, two Battle Stars for the Battle of the Atlantic, as well as the European Theater and World War II Campaign ribbons. He was honorably discharged in 1944. That same year, Marty married Elizabeth “Betty” Bohjelian on Christmas Eve. Together they built a home in West Philadelphia and welcomed three children: Gregory, Madeline, and Thomas. In 1958, the family moved to Delaware Township, NJ, and later enjoyed summers at their beloved Long Beach Island home. Though Marty and Betty eventually parted ways, they shared many years of family and love.

In 1972, Marty married Carol Carpenter, adopting her son Jeffrey and later welcoming three children together: Martin, Kathryn, and Mikhail. Together they built a family in Medford and Long Beach, NJ before eventually going their separate ways in 1991. Even after separating they continued to ensure the family was surrounded by love and laughter.

In 1995, Marty found lasting companionship with his third wife, Marley Lovendusky. Marley worked tirelessly to bridge Marty’s blended families, helping to create a sense of unity that became one of the great blessings of his later life. Together they lived on Long Beach Island and later in Columbus, NJ, before Marty’s final residence at Masonic Village in Burlington.
Beyond his service, Marty was a hardworking provider. He began in his family’s dry-cleaning business before joining his father-in- law and brother-in-law in the emerging photo-lithography industry. He later led the sales division of one of the nation’s premier direct-mail printers, where his work ethic and natural people skills shone.

Marty had many passions. He was happiest by the sea—whether walking the beaches of Long Beach Island or setting out on the water. He loved to travel, sharing adventures with family and friends. Yet above all, Marty’s greatest devotion was to his family. His life was defined by the bonds of love, sacrifice, and perseverance he carried across generations.

Marty is survived by his seven children, thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his stories, his laughter, and his enduring spirit. A man of courage, resilience, and heart, Marty Gutchigian leaves behind a legacy rooted in love of family, country, and heritage. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 101 Ashmead Rd, Cheltenham, PA 19012. (https://holytrinity-pa.org/donation/)

Viewing: Monday September 22, 2025 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church 101 Ashmead Road Cheltenham, PA 19012

Funeral Mass: Monday September 22, 2025 10:30 AM Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church 101 Ashmead Road Cheltenham, PA 19012