Martin James Pabich

Martin "Marty" Pabich of Lake Bluff, Ill. died peacefully on January 28, 2025. Marty grew up the ultimate middle child — one of ten siblings, with three older brothers, three younger brothers and three sisters (and for a brief time, a duck!). His place in the family shaped his ability to navigate any situation with humor and a deep sense of camaraderie.

Marty was born and raised in Chicago and spent his "formative years" on a Coast Guard boat traveling the Mississippi River, favoring his time in New Orleans. 

He met his wife, Kelly, and began a family while pursuing degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Fire Protection Engineering. They settled in Elmwood Park, Ill. and then later in Lake Bluff, Ill. He spent years running a large-scale fire testing facility. When asked how he made his living he liked to respond, "I start fires." His expertise, sharp mind and commitment to protecting others took him into his second career evaluating risk for commercial facilities. 

Outside of work, his pocket was never without a harmonica, and he found joy filling any quiet moment with music. Live performances were his sanctuary. Wherever work took him he sought a concert, immersing himself in the rhythm of life. In his prime he was an avid cyclist, crossing the country on two wheels fueled by adventure and a love for the open road. No matter where life took him, one thing was certain — come spring, he would be at Wrigley Field, rarely missing a Cubs home opener. Through the highs and lows of being a Cubs fan he remained ever loyal, always believing this would be their year. In 2016 he was there when they finally proved him right. 

Marty was devoted to his family and is survived by his wife, Kelly Pabich, children Sam (Andy) Spiel, Katharine (Phillip) Levin, Nicholas (Lisa) Pabich, grandchildren Elodie Spiel, James Levin, Cameron Spiel and Louis Levin, siblings Ethel Venable, Skip Pabich, John Pabich, Peggy Frantz, Ed Pabich, Barb Ateca, Rob Pabich, Joe Pabich, Giana Piatanesi, 10 brothers- and sisters-in law, and 30 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Lois Pabich and his brother Mike.

Marty's life was extended on his second "birthday," April 25, 2023, when he received the treasured gift of a lung donation from a generous donor. 

Though Marty’s harmonica may be silent, his song plays on in the lives he touched and his spirit will forever be found in the sound of a cheering crowd at Wrigley Field, the hum of a bicycle wheel and the echoes of live music.

A service will be held at Church of St. Mary, 175 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest, Ill. on February 4, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made in his memory to The Society of Fire Protection Engineers, The League of American Bicyclists or Donate Life America.

Please share your memories of Marty by posting in his Guestbook.

Cress Funeral Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI

(608) 238-3434