Martin Joseph O’Toole, 81, of Rutherford College, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Catawba Valley Medical Center following a brief illness.

Martin was born on November 15, 1944, in Alleghany County, Pennsylvania, son of the late Patrick Joseph and Cecilia Stella Czachowska O’Toole. He was baptized at St. Kieran’s Roman Catholic Church in Pittsburgh and was a proud graduate of Central Catholic High School and the University of Pittsburgh. A devoted family man, Martin placed his family above all else. He deeply loved his children and family, instilling in them a strong work ethic balanced with a genuine love of life.

Martin was actively involved in his church and community, wearing many hats throughout his life. He worked for years as a plant manager and then moved into general business consulting later in life. In his spare time, he served on the town planning committee for Rutherford College and as Finance Chair at Abernethy Memorial United Methodist Church. Martin was also deeply passionate about working for the census and always eager to share its importance. He was rarely without a story for those willing to listen, as storytelling was one of his most cherished pastimes. Much to the dismay of his wife and son, he remained a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in passing by his wife of fifty-one years, Frankie O’Toole, and stepfather, Leslie Mihalyi.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Kevin O’Toole, Kelly O’Toole, and Marcy O’Toole; sister, Mary Patricia Vucic (Alan); a niece, Karen Keys (Justin); and a nephew, Nick Vucic (Becca). He was Poppy to Sky Maconie and Star Maconie.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Abernethy Memorial United Methodist Church at 5:00 PM with Rev. Slice Penny officiating. A reception will be held following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Abernethy Memorial United Methodist Church General Fund at PO Box 127, Rutherford College, NC 28671.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory is assisting the family.