Barbara K. “Barb” Martino
March 14, 1926 - June 29, 2025
Barbara K. “Barb” Martino, age 99, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
Born in Whittier, CA on March 14, 1926, she was the only child of Frederick W. and Irminda Jane (Banning) Kestle. Barb’s family moved to Mt. Lebanon, PA during her childhood, where she grew up. After marrying, Barb moved to Delaware, where she made Newark her home for over 70 years.
Throughout her life Barb had many different hobbies and interests. As a young woman, she enjoyed sailing with her first husband Wally and competing in races up and down the east coast. In her free time, she was known for her love of knitting, sewing, needlework, gardening, dancing, and swimming at Nottingham Green pool. One of her favorite pastimes was sitting on her porch, watching the birds in her backyard. She was a lifelong bridge player and forged many lasting friendships through the numerous clubs she belonged to.
An excellent cook, she passed on her love for cooking to many of her children and grandchildren. She found joy in exploring new places, and her travels took her across Europe and the United States. She especially cherished summer family vacations at White House Farms on Indian River Bay and Stone Harbor, NJ, where she would soak in the sun and the company of her loved ones. Above all, Barb treasured time spent with her family and friends.
Barb’s faith was an integral part of her life. She was a devoted member of St. Thomas More Oratory, where she faithfully attended services and volunteered her time to wash and iron the vestments. She also generously contributed food to dinners for the students, embodying a spirit of service and community.
In recent years, Barb found a new circle of friends at The Vero Assisted Living, where she was surrounded by a compassionate staff who cared for her with kindness and attention. The last two years of her life were made fulfilling and happy by the love and care she received there, and her family is deeply grateful for the dedicated staff and the friendships she made during her time there.
Barb was preceded in death by her parents and her three beloved husbands: Wallace McKee, Vernon Svetlik, and Eugene Martino. She is survived by her children, David (Tena), Mary Pat (Norman), Carol (Steve), Linda (John), Suzy (Mike), Dianna (Gibby), Susan (Yan), Steve (Debbie), and Richard (Charlotte); 22 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9 am until 11 am on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barb’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Winnie Berry
I was so Blessed to have known your mom Di. She truly was a beautiful , kind woman ! ALWAYS meticulous in her appearance and her manners ! I’m sure her friends and more so her family are going to miss her ray of sunshine ! Blessings for Peace my friend
Liz and Pete Ross
We send our love to all of Barb’s family. Sooo many memories over so many years.
Menasco Heidi
Lovely lady, what a wonderful example she was to everyone that knew her. God bless her family! Sending prayers and love, Heidi and Tim Menasco
Richard Burris
So sorry for your loss, my condolences to you and family 🙏
Joanna Stout
Dear Barb always made the best of
Life and Living along with Maggie
Richitelli her friend! An entire era
Of joy is passed along to all her loved ones! Mary Pat was a terrific
Child carer for my group!
Most special love to all!
Joanna Stout
Janet DeRicco
Barbara was a wonderful friend. We played bridge at her house once a week and at Vero. She always had a smile and had a way of making you feel special. I will miss her.
Jeanne Fanning
To all of Barb’s family it was my honor to have known Barb. She was kind, considerate and funny. She was one of the most interesting people I’ve ever known. I loved sitting at her kitchen table and listening to her recount her stories. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Joan Coleman
So sorry for your loss Di. Your mom was a special person.
She was always welcomed all your friends when we would all hang out at your house.
Sending love to you and your family❤️
Jean Holveck
Barb was always a joy to chat with at Nottingham Green pool. A lovely person. Our group gathered in the far corner at the deep end of the pool called the “old farts corner.” Many laughs and pleasant days spent with Barb. My condolences to your family.
Bob Holt
So sorry for your loss
Aurionna Berrios
I loved Barbra like a grandmother I looked after her for a year and grew very close with her . She will forever be in my heart ❤️
Carolyn Agnew
Sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful woman. I have enjoyed playing bridge with her over the years. I will miss her.
Debra Martino
Condolences to the family
Debbie Martino
Condolences to the family.
Steve and Debbie Martino
Gregg Burnham
I was deeply saddened to hear of Barbara Martino’s passing. She was such a kind, sweet, and loving soul—truly one of a kind. During my years at the University of Delaware in the 1980s, Barbara was more than just a landlady to me; she was like a second mom. Her home wasn’t just a place to stay—it was a haven. She opened her doors and her heart to students from around the world, creating a warm and vibrant gathering place where friendships blossomed and lasting bonds were formed.
Barbara had a way of making everyone feel special. She was the wind beneath many wings—always encouraging, always loving, always gracious. I was so blessed to see her this past April. It was a joyful surprise for both of us, and one I will cherish forever.
It’s rare to meet someone as selfless and generous as Barbara. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched with her warmth and compassion. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Gregg Burnham
anne Biddle
Deepest sympathy, Barb touched and impacted the lives of so many in her long and beautiful life. Love and prayers for healing and peace, Rick & Anne Biddle.
BJ DiDonato
Sweet Barb!
My prayers and condolences to all of Barb’s children and extended family. Thank you for sharing her with us at The Vero. She truly became like family to us. I loved seeing her and talking with her. She was a beautiful lady. She always had her hair done. She was someone to truly look up to.
We miss you.
Sincerely,
BJ
Friends at Starr Wright USA
Our prayers are with your family. May your loved one always live in your hearts.