Herbert E. Martin, 82, of Onset passed away Oct. 27 with his longtime and loving companion Laurie J. Kelly and her daughter Melissa Kelly by his side.

Herbie also leaves behind the D’Italia family that welcomed him with opened arms during his last years, which he then inevitably became a prominent, loved member of. Born in Quincy and raised in Weymouth, he joins his father Herbert C. Martin and mother, Ruth A. Martin. Herbert amazed all with his intelligence, talent, and knack for pranks. In his younger years at Weymouth High School, he played in the band, and enjoyed all kinds of music, always keeping the rhythm. He earned an Ivy League education at Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University and Northeastern in science. He also earned a Ph.D. in microbiology and minored in chemistry.

Herbert served in the Army and Veterinary Corps after school until 1964 and went on to work at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington D.C. and research and development at Arthur D. Little laboratories. During his time at Arthur D. Little, Herbie helped with experiments including chemotherapy and managed many intramural sports and bridge leagues.

Known for being eccentric, Herbie was also an avid, world class antiques collector for more than 50 years. A familiar fixture at the flea market, Herbie was always on the lookout for a great deal and a rare find. Always a character, he referred to himself as “Herb the verb, always in motion,” and was an unforgettable presence to all that met him. Herbie will be sorely missed and forever loved by his friends and loved ones. He enriched the lives of everyone close to him.

His funeral service will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at Chapman Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, 2599 Cranberry Highway (Rt. 28), Wareham at 11 a.m. Interment will be in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

Donations in his memory may be made to: Alzheimer's Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472. For directions and online guestbook, visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com.