Martin A. Klafter
Funeral Service: December 11, 2024 11:00 AM
Cemetery: Beth Moses Cemetery
1500 Wellwood Avenue,
West Babylon, NY 11704
Notes:
Graveside Service – Beth Moses Cemetery
Martin Arthur Klafter
December 22, 1933 – December 8, 2024
Martin Arthur “Marty” Klafter passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 8, 2024, at the age of 90.
Marty’s passing came exactly four years after the loss of his beloved wife of 60 years, Doris (Weissman) Klafter. The Klafter family finds comfort in this timing, believing it reflects the deep adoration and unwavering love he held for Doris, the true love of his life.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Marty was the son of Max and Ruth (Hammerman) Klafter. He graduated from Brooklyn College of Pharmacy and promptly began his career in pharmacy, initially working in Miami before returning to Brooklyn.
In 1959, Marty was introduced to Doris. After a whirlwind courtship, they were married on June 5, 1960, in New York City. The couple began their life together in Forest Hills, later settling in Howard Beach, New York, where they raised their growing family. Drawn to the cultural vibrancy of New York City, Marty and Doris eventually moved to Manhattan’s Upper East Side while also establishing a second home in Lake Worth, Florida. They delighted in hosting their children, grandchildren, and friends, creating a warm and welcoming haven for all. The couple shared a passion for theater, fine dining, and travel, making cherished memories across the Americas and Europe.
Professionally, Marty was a highly successful pharmaceutical salesperson, spending much of his career with Mead Johnson Nutritionals/Bristol-Myers Squibb, where he was frequently recognized as the company’s top salesperson. His charisma and genuine interest in people made him a natural in his role, building relationships with the medical professionals he served who were delighted by his visits. Though he officially retired at age 60, Marty continued working part-time in the field he loved until he was 80.
Despite his many professional achievements, Marty will be best remembered for his vibrant personality and zest for life. Always upbeat and brimming with humor, he brought joy to everyone around him. Marty had a knack for turning an ordinary evening out into a memorable event, and a family gathering into a moment that would yield treasured stories that will be retold for generations.
Known affectionately as “Mr. K,” Marty was a friend to everyone, whether it was a maître d’, a bank teller, or a neighbor. He had a gift for drawing people in, learning their stories, and sharing his unique brand of wisdom. His booming laugh, impromptu singing, and signature sayings left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Marty is survived by his younger siblings, Adrienne Koren of Boynton Beach, FL, and Myron Klafter of El Segundo, CA; his children, Mitchell Klafter and his wife Rebecca (Biegel), Allison Howald and her husband Daniel, and David Klafter and his wife Deborah (Weinberg); and his grandchildren: Melissa Klafter and her husband Matthew Friedman, Samara Klafter Waknin and her husband Phillip Waknin, Amanda Howald and her husband Jon Schwarz, Jason Howald, Joshua Klafter, and Danielle Klafter.
Marty’s legacy of joy, laughter, and love will be cherished by all who knew him. He leaves behind a family and community touched and forever enriched by his warmth and indomitable spirit.