Martin H. Buchman

Martin H. Buchman, son of Morton Buchman and Helen Adler Buchman, was born in Cleveland, OH on November 18, 1935. After living a full life, surrounded by his loving family he transitioned peacefully from this world on September 9, 2024, at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his parents, and beloved sister, Barbara Buchman Snoek.

Martin is survived by his loving wife of nearly 59 years, Judith S. Buchman, his twin adult children Ellen (Patty Snee) and Andrew (Shannon McNary), his grandsons whom he adored, Jacob and Max, his miniature schnauzer Susie, his nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. Marty had an incredible zest for life and possessed many talents and interests which he pursued until his final days. He lived his early years in Novelty, OH, attended college and graduate school at the University of Michigan, and later proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard in Illinois. As a young man, he moved to Chicago, IL, where he started a career in sales and met his future bride, Judy. They purchased their first home in Wilmette, IL and then moved to Johnstown, PA where the family lived for ten years. His company transferred him to Erie, PA in the late 1980s and he and Judy have lived there together ever since. 

Martin’s career in business included being a sales manager, and later the owner of a pottery shop on 26th Street in Erie. His pottery business brought him great joy and pride, especially his importing of Black pottery from a Hungarian family whose home in Budapest, Hungary he traveled to and with whom he cultivated a relationship that lasted for years.

Martin had an abiding love and passion for music. He began playing the piano at age 6 and singing in choirs as a college student. He was an accomplished classical pianist, chamber musician, choral singer and cantor. He loved Maine; he and Judy and their dogs spent summers at their camp there for many years. He enjoyed gardening, exploring, and traveling worldwide with his family. Marty was also a whisperer to a host of K9 family members over the years, who joined him on walks, road trips and naps. He loved his family - human and K9 - unconditionally, and showed his affection with hugs, puns, and expressions of love big and small.

Martin was a devoted community member who developed his penchant for leadership and volunteering every place he lived. He served in the Rotary Club as its president in Johnstown, engaged with his kids’ schools, and helped out at the local NPR station in Erie, PA. He was proud of the volunteer hours he spent teaching bridge to men who were incarcerated in the Pennsylvania state prison system.

Marty was happiest when playing music with friends, particularly the Three Seasons Quartet, enjoying a game of bridge or Scrabble, reading, exploring museums, attending concerts, and meeting new people. Although the world is a much less colorful place without Martin’s physical presence, his spirit and energy will live on in the memories and stories of everyone who knew him.

A celebration of Martin’s life will be held in Erie in November 2024, around the time of what would have been his 89th birthday.

Funeral Arrangements are under the care of the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, 3801 W. 26th Street, Erie, PA 16506. 

In lieu of flowers, the Buchman family suggests contributions in Martin’s memory to the inspiring pursuits of the international Dudamel Foundation, or locally in Erie to either the Neighborhood Art House or the Erie Pardon Project.