Don L. Martella

Don Leroy Martella, 82, of Hibbing/Side Lake and formerly Marble, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Cornerstone Assisted Living in Buhl, MN. Don was born in Hibbing to Benjamin and Lorraine (Kinzel) Martella on May 30, 1944. He graduated from Hibbing High School with the class of 1962 and went on to Montana State University, where he played basketball and eventually graduated from Bemidji State University with his teaching degree. Don was part of the Army National Guard and was a school teacher in Lakeville, MN, before moving back to Northern MN, where he owned and operated Martella's Hammer in Marble for 21 years. He also worked for Sullivan Candy and Supply for many years. Marble is where Don and his wife Alana settled down to start and raise their family. Don was an outstanding athlete as he played many sports. He excelled at softball and was recently inducted into the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame. He enjoyed playing darts and pool, traveling to see family in Italy, and of course spending time at the cabin on Perch Lake. Above all, he loved his family and an amazing grandpa to his grandkids.

Don is survived by his children Justin (Kartika) Martella and Mindy Martella, grandkids Gianna, Zoey, Ava and Primo, brother Paul (Alice) Martella. He is preceded in death by both of his parents and his wife.

There will be a celebration of Don's life held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Marble Community Center on Saturday, September 19, 2026.