Ernest Philip Martelli

Ernest Philip Martelli, age 78, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, passed away on August 10, 2026. He was the husband of the late Yvonne Martelli, with whom he was married for 38 years. He later married Lisa (Gormel) Martelli, with whom he shared 12 years of marriage. Born in Wilmington, DE, he was the son of the late Anthony James Martelli and the late Mary Ann (Stewart) Martelli.

Ernie served our country in the United States Marines during the Vietnam War. He achieved the rank of Corporal and was a Purple Heart recipient, a prestigious U.S. Military Decoration awarded to service members wounded or killed by enemy action.

Ernie was a third-generation mushroom farmer. It was a job that he took pride in, representing his family in a business that originated with his great-grandfather, Luca Martelli, and continued with his father, Anthony, and uncles, James Martelli and Daniel Martelli.

In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, sailing, and spending time training their German Shepards. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, dedication to family, and his sense of humor.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Lisa Martelli; his sons, Matthew Martelli (son) and Michael Martelli (son); his grandchildren, Zebulin Martelli, Jeremiah Martelli, Michaela Martelli, Jordan Martelli, Luca Martelli, Leo Martelli, Lila Martelli; his sisters, Cindy Hylton and Theresa Kupchinski. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Yvonne Martelli; and siblings, Anthony Martelli and Steven (Mugsy) Martelli.

You are invited to attend a graveside service at 10:00 AM on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Union Hill Cemetery 424 North Union Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348. A Life Celebration will follow at 11:00 AM at the Italian American Club 30 Ways Lane, Kennett Square, PA19348. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made directly to the Delaware Veterans Trust Fund www.delawareveteranstrustfund.com/donate

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. of Kennett Square, PA. To leave a condolence for his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.