Colonel Martin Dawson Peatross, USMC (Retired)
May 24, 1952 – April 2, 2025
Martin “Marty” Dawson Peatross passed away peacefully on April 2 at the age 72, surrounded by his family and friends. A devoted Marine, beloved family member, and loyal friend, he lived a life marked by honor, service, and integrity.
Born on May 24, 1952, in Arlington, Virginia, Marty felt an early call to serve his country. He pursued higher education at the University of Maryland, graduating in 1975 as a member of ROTC and a Division 1 wrestler for the Terrapins. He later earned a master’s degree in National Resource Strategy from the National Defense University.
Marty had a remarkable 30-year career in the United States Marine Corps as a CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter pilot. He undertook several command assignments and consistently displayed steadfast dedication to his country. Nicknamed “Moss” by his peers, Marty earned numerous prestigious accolades, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (1 Gold Star), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal for Individual Action, among many others. Marty served as Operations Officer of HMH-362 during the first Gulf War/Liberation of Kuwait. He was later promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and assumed the duties of Executive Officer, then Commanding Officer. In 1994, he was selected as the U.S. Marine Corps Aviator of the Year for his innovations in aviation operations. Following his command, he was reassigned to NATO and served with the UN Peacekeeping Forces, serving a six-month tour in Bosnia. In 1998, Marty was reassigned to MCAS Miramar, where he served as the 3rd Marine Air Wing Safety Officer. In 1999, he assumed the duties as Commanding Officer Marine Air Group 16 where his units were the first to enter Afghanistan and establish a base in Khandahar. In 2002, he was selected to be the Marine Corps Fellow to the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City. In 2003 he was reassigned to the office of the Deputy Commandant for Aviation where he served as the Executive Assistant. Marty retired as a Colonel in 2005, following his remarkable service to the nation.
Beyond his military achievements, Marty was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to the love of his life, Sherry Peatross, and together, they shared a lifelong journey of adventure and service, traveling the world and forming enduring friendships at every stop. After retiring from active duty, Marty and Sherry settled in their home state of Virginia and eventually relocated to Tampa, Florida, in 2020.
Marty is preceded in death by his wife Sherry, his father Andy and stepmother Mary Elise Peatross, his mother Martha and stepfather Col (Ret’d) Bob Farmer. He is survived by his son, Christopher Romanelli (Emily), and his step children, John Reeke (Jennifer), and Suzanne Fletcher(John); his adored grandchildren, Aidan, Lexi, Reed, Sally, Cassidy, Caleigh, and Caden; his sisters, Sally, Betsy, and Laura; his brothers, Bobby, and Jimmy; a large extended family and countless friends who mourn his loss and celebrate his legacy.
Marty will be remembered for his commitment to the nation and his love for family and friends. He had a big heart, a corny sense of humor, and a love of 70’s music. He was a great sailor, skier, and dancer. Marty prioritized his fitness. He ran the Marine Corp marathon, many triathlons, and organized multiple neighborhood races in retirement. He was always seeking opportunities to help those he loved and was a mentor to many. In one final act of generosity, Marty donated his brain for research, hoping to help future families facing Lewy Body dementia. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and service live on.
A private graveside service with full military honors will be held at the Florida National Cemetery in Fall 2025, reserved for close family and friends.
Semper Fidelis
The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, charitable contributions be made in memory of Marty to the Brain Support Network (PO Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA 94026, www.brainsupportnetwork.org.
Condolences
I knew Marty through his son in law John. He would bring Marty to our hunt camp. I called him Party Marty as he was so much fun to have around. He was a true warrior and Patriot. I’m sad to see him go but I know he missed his wife Sherry so much but I good knowing they are together again. Marty was also a mentor to his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. I will miss Marty and I was lucky to have known him. R.I.P. Marine Warrior.
My deepest sympathy to Marty’s family and friends. I can attest to the fact that as someone who worked for him in the Ugly Angles, he was what all Marines should strive to be and then some. Few can acclaim his successes and contributions to the Corps and Country.
God speed.
Marty touched so many lives in the very best way . I’m grateful I got the chance to serve with him in the Marines . He is a Great American Patriot and may he RIP 🙏
Semper Fidelis
Marty Peatross was/is a Great American Marine Warrior who will be missed by “Thousands” of Friends throughout our USA. He was very intelligent, compassionate, and a LEADER in every respect! Mine and Kathy’s Hearts are BROKEN…. But we know The Good Lord already has him busy straightening out an organization of several MILLION ANGELS!
One of the finest Marines I had the honor to serve with. A great man, a great Marine. I am honored to have served with him and call him my friend. Fair winds and following seas Moss. Semper Fi.
I met Marty as a fellow contractor while supporting the DC, CD&I on the GATOR program (radar). One of his engineers supported me on my GDIT contract and Marty was very gracious in letting me and my team use his offices in Stafford for meetings and conferences. He offered up meeting space without hesitation and he and I became instant friends with much in common as fellow CH-53 pilots and retired Colonels. I admired his background in the Marine Corps and his conduct as a Site Lead for TSC in Stafford. His passing comes as a surprise to me, and I regret not seeing him as our paths took different directions in the corporate world. Please accept my deepest respect for Marty as I cherish memories of him in our past. Semper Fidelis and rest in peace with a life well-lived through service and sacrifice.
Marty Peatross, a Colonel of Marines and his devoted wife, were professional and personal role models in all respects to all of us who served with them in the Marine Corps. His exemplary demeanor , on and off the job, and his leadership and mentorship to countless shipmates will be remembered for generations…..Colonel Marty Peatross, a leader for the ages, will be remembered for his legacy on how he made the world a better place not for what he accomplished, but by the way he made all people feel good about themselves throughout his life. He and Sherry will be forever missed, but not forgotten.
My family had been friends of Marty and the Farmer family since we were neighbors at Yokota AB in 1960. I last saw him at my mother’s funeral a few years ago. I’ll miss you old friend. Rest in Peace.