Cathedral City - Martin A. Zelbow, 72, of Cathedral City passed away on February 13 after a brief illness. Marty was born on June 3, 1945 to the late Israel and Belle Zelbow in Brattleboro, Vermont. Marty is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Alan and Shelly Zelbow of Stoughton, MA and Waterville Valley, NH as well as nieces Carole and Stacey. Marty leaves behind his beloved dog, Gunner, whom he rescued from a shelter.

Marty moved to the Coachella Valley 15 years ago, and he was quick to make a good many friends. Marty also leaves behind his colleagues at Bennion Deville Homes, many of whom he counted as close friends.

Marty's accomplishments are too numerous to catalogue in their entirety, but they include a B.A. degree in Economics from Northeastern University as well as an MBA degree from the Tuck Business School at Dartmouth College. Marty was a CPA, whose career included consulting stints at enterprises, both large and small. Marty was also proud of his military service, which included two years in Viet Nam. Marty served, too, as a foster parent to youth who had "aged out" of the system.

Above all else, Marty was a treat to know. He seldom hesitated to speak his mind, but his wry sense of humor underscored his desire not to offend. Marty was extremely intelligent but never condescending. Marty was always willing to lend a helping hand, and he never expected the favor to be returned. He was simply there when you needed him. He will be missed, but his legacy will indeed endure.

A celebration of Marty's life will be planned for a later date.

Please contact Stuart Rosenthal ([email protected]), if you would like to join in the celebration of this very special life.
Published in The Desert Sun on Mar. 21, 2018