Martin F. Kanawall

Martin F. Kanawall, 88 of Fairfield, beloved husband for 52 years to his wife JoAnn Kanawall (Turrini) passed away peacefully on June 1, 2022. Marty was born in Fairfield (Southport) on March 31, 1934 to the late Stephen and Anna Kanawall. After leaving his formal education early, Marty enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served aboard the U.S.S. Shakori. After his honorable discharge, Marty began his long employment with the Bullard Company where he was the assistant foreman of electronic assembly and then supervisor. After Bullard’s closed Marty was the manager of Bridgeport Garden Apartments.

Marty also had a passion for photography. Marty worked with Talent America and helped many models get their start. He was a judge for U.S. Model of the Year and Talent America Pageants. His photographs have been published in many books and many are still on display even in Europe.

Ever an adventurer, Marty learned to fly airplanes at the airfield in Monroe and then Bridgeport. Marty’s love of the water from his Navy days led he and JoAnn to acquire their own 32‘ boat, the “Mistress”. The “Mistress” enabled the Kanawalls to be part of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 77. While members of the Flotilla in 1975, the Mistress and her crew saved a father and son from a boat explosion! Marty loved to help people, but above all he loved time with his family and friends.  He loved animals and they loved him, especially his companions Lady 1 and Lady 2.

Marty’s life represents an unsurpassed record of accomplishments. He gave generously of his time to help others along with giving to many charities. He was a very special man to all the lives he touched and will be sorely missed. 

Marty is survived by his beloved wife JoAnn, his sister Theresa Ann Bishop as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers: John, Adolph, Albert and Joseph; and sisters: Victoria Galko, Mary Orszag and Elsie Cadrin and nephews Wayne and Jimmy Bishop.

The family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses and staff at the VA medical center in West Haven for their compasionate care.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday June 13 at 11:30 Am  at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Fairfield. Burial with full Military Honors will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery. Friends and Family may visit on Sunday June 12 from 1-3PM at the Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Rd, Fairfield.

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