40 Bostons...A QCC Farewell to Martin Duffy

A sad time for the QCC...another stalwart has passed away. Reprinted below is Martin's obituary. He is one of only 5 people in the Boston Marathon's 114 year history to have finished 40 consecutive Bostons. Please read the earlier article about Martin in the QCC Blog. I have sent every member running Boston next April a special wristband to wear during the race, honoring Martin...not only his achievements as a runner, but also in recognition of the wonderful human being he was. Heartfelt condolences to his wife, Rusty, and daughters Brianna & Katie.

Martin E. Duffy of Belmont passed away peacefully at home Nov 29, 2010 following an illness with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Rusty Stieff, loving father of Brianna Duffy and Katie Duffy, father-in-law of Randy Morin, and grandfather of Evie and Liam Morin. He is survived by his siblings, Janice Kirkman, Arthur Duffy, Tom Duffy and Anne Kenney. A lifelong runner, Martin began running at Durfee High in Fall River where he was captain of the track team. At Tufts University, because he carried six courses on a full scholarship, he had to temporarily put his track career aside. Years later, Martin completed 40 consecutive Boston Marathons, ran in the Philadelphia and New York Marathons and completed a personal best time of 2:37.11 in the Ocean State Marathon finishing second in the Master's Division. After earning an MBA from Wharton, Martin was an economist and consultant at Data Resources Inc. before founding his own firm, The Perseus Group. He was proud of his contributions as adjunct faculty at Emmanuel College and Suffolk University and within the town of Belmont, serving as both town meeting member and beloved soccer coach for many years. Martin's inclusive nature and his ability to interact with people in many circles on a wide range of topics allowed him to touch the lives of many. He was a friend, mentor, confidante, coach, teacher and role model all rolled into one. As one friend wrote, "His friendship was genuine and his smile was a reflection of his heart." His contributions, substantive character and life-loving spirit will be remembered and missed. He brought out the best in many of us. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Foundation for Belmont Education P. O. Box 518 Belmont, MA. 02478 or to Holy Union Sisters c/o Sister Barbara Kirkman P.O. Box 410 Milton, MA 02186. Be well.