Martin James Cass, 74, died unexpectedly the week of August 16th , 2026. Martin “Marty,” “Stick” was a lifelong resident of Syracuse with short stints in Sebring, FL and Marietta, NY. Marty was born on May 6, 1952 to Elizabeth and Eugene Cass. As one of nine children (eight brothers and one sister), Martin had to forge his own identity as a middle child. In his early years he was a communicant and alter boy at Our Lady of Lourdes and the proud namesake of Monsignor Martin J. Watley.

As a young man, Marty found his calling as a skilled cabinetmaker and woodworker. Later in life, building on these skills, he became a creative craftsman, antique collector and “picker”. He was known for his driveway sales which often included items that Mart had transformed into works of art. He was an active gardener, golfer and frequently volunteered to help his neighbors and older friends and acquaintances. He was an eccentric figure who will be remembered by family and friends for showing up in his derby or top hat and smoking jacket with his Cass sense of humor intact.

Marty is survived by his daughter, Sarah and four grandchildren; his daughter, Erin; his goddaughter, Tracy; his brothers, Norman, Edward, Daniel, Michael and Peter; his sister, Jean; and his many nieces and nephews, first cousins and their children. Martin was predeceased by his parents and beloved brothers William, James and Thomas.

Family services will be private. A celebration of Marty’s life is being planned for next summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society where Marty’s elderly cat “Marty McFly” awaits adoption.