Martin H. Stern, affectionately known as Marty, Mr. Stern, Coach Stern, Uncle Marty, Uncle Big Marty, and Papa, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the age of 71. He had stubbornly and courageously battled Parkinson's disease for over 20 years while residing in Cortlandt Manor, New York, where he lived a full, giving, and deeply loved life.
Born on September 14, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, Marty grew up with a strong commitment to family and a natural ability to connect with people. He spent much of his career as a manager at Geis Auto Mall, where his trustworthiness and people skills truly stood out. Later in life, he enjoyed working alongside his oldest brother, Aaron Stern, in the reinsurance business—a change that fit perfectly with his adaptable, hands-on nature.
Marty was the ultimate "fixer"—whether it was a car, a household gadget, or something that didn't actually need fixing (periodically leaving one of his sons without running water for a day or two). He was an avid and competitive bowler, a master at crafting pinewood derby cars that always competed for gold, and a devoted coach who poured countless hours into supporting his sons Matthew and Steven, along with their friends, in every sport they played. Even as the boys grew older, Marty remained a familiar, cheerful, supportive fixture along the fence at their games.
Above all, Marty was selfless, generous, unfailingly reliable, and blessed with a witty sense of humor that could brighten any moment. He had a rare gift for making everyone he met feel valued and welcomed, and he was genuinely loved by all who were lucky enough to know him. Marty is survived by his devoted wife, Laura Stern; his sons Matthew Stern (Aisha) and Steven Stern (Renee); and his cherished grandchildren Harris, Emilia, Clark, Johnny, and Luke Stern. He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Pauline (Pearl) Stern, and his older brother, David Stern. He is also fondly remembered by his oldest brother Aaron and all of his nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm at Yorktown Funeral Home, 945 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY. The funeral service will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 10:30am at Yorktown Funeral Home, to be followed by burial at Hillside Cemetery, 1033 Oregon Rd, Cortlandt Manor, NY.
In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations in Marty's memory to a Parkinson's disease research organization of your choice, or simply share a story about him with someone who knew him—he'd love that most of all.
Marty lived with heart, humor, and quiet strength. He cherished people and relationships over possessions. He will be deeply missed, but his warmth and the countless memories he created will stay with us always.
