Martin Smoak, Community Activist, Dies

Martin Smoak doing it "his way" as Frank Sinatra.

Martin H. Smoak, a resident and fixture of Astoria for the past 52 years, died Saturday, February 17. Smoak was a loving father, a devoted grandfather, community activist, member of various community organizations and a very close "friend" of Santa. He was the unofficial mayor of Astoria and was seen every day

walking down Broadway doing his errands. This walk could take up to two hours, since he knew someone on every block. Since his retirement several years ago, he embarked on a second career where he developed, produced and performed a cabaret act based on the songs of Bobby Darin and his latest production titled "Frankly Sinatra…My Way". He was recognized for his efforts by being nominated for a MAC award for best new act. In keeping with the stage adage, "The show must go on", Smoak performed his last show on December 29, 2006 at Danny's Starlight Room to a sold-out crowd, just days before going into the hospital for surgery

Smoak's wife of 44 years, Catherine Mary (née Finnegan), predeceased him. He is survived by his son, John, his daughter, Catherine Garvey and his three grandchildren, Evan, Briana and Meaghan. He will be missed by all of his extended family and friends and by the community that he loved so much.

Martin Smoak and his wife, Catherine, on vacation in happier times.

The family received visitors at Morisco Funeral Home, and a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Most Precious Blood Roman Catholic Church. Smoak was buried at St. John's Cemetery alongside his wife.

"Marty Smoak was a devoted and caring husband to his ailing, beloved wife, Catherine, who predeceased him," former City Council Speaker Peter Vallone Sr. said. "He was a good friend of mine and great friend to our community, which he served in many ways, as a director of the Astoria Civic Association, a cheerful Santa Claus for the Steinway Merchants and children of Astoria and as a sweetsinging imitator of Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darin, giving cheer to children of all ages. He will be sorely missed."

"Marty was a founding member of the Central Astoria Local Development Coalition and for many years its vice president," CALDC President Julian Wager said. "In his memory, a portion of CALDC's summer concert series will be dedicated to him."