Martin Small

Martin H. Small died July 2, 2024, surrounded by family, after a year-long battle with cancer. He was born in Chicago, IL May 18, 1934, to Abe and Sidel Small, the youngest of three brothers. With perseverance, hard work, and always humor he joined the service after finishing two years of college, where he served in Hawaii when, as he put it, "peace broke out." He finished college at Roosevelt, where he met, charmed, and married Merle Kromer, his wife of 64 years.

Marty worked in the health care field initially in sales, and subsequently became a serial entrepreneur. He founded Hydro-Med, that developed novel sterile supplies for surgery; he subsequently worked as a vice president of a software sales and installation company. Over the years his work took his family from Chicago, to New York, to Dallas, and then back to Chicago. In retirement, Marty and Merle moved to Rochester MN, to be closer to their daughters and sons-in-law, Vicki and Paul Friedman, and Susan and Troy Mikell. Marty is also survived by granddaughters Lindsay (married to Jonathan), Hannah, and Madeline, and grandsons Noah (married to Maddie), Adam, and Matthew, and great-grandsons (parents Lindsay/Jon) Asher and Simon.

Marty enjoyed travel, technology, golf, and spending time with friends; for years "the guys" would meet at a restaurant every Thursday, and share laughs and good times. After retirement he volunteered at Mayo Clinic, taught classes for seniors on how to use an iPhone, read avidly and shared articles widely with friends and family. His final words reflect his humor and warmth - when his daughters entered his hospital room he looked up and uttered, "thank you for coming." He will be deeply missed; he was a real gem.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Pam Stern Legacy of Hope, c/o Keshet, keshet.org

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Small family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com