Martin Jack Sheer's Obituary
Martin Jack Sheer, 84, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Delray Beach, FL. Born on September 28, 1941 in the Bronx, NY, Martin then moved to Poughkeepsie at a very young age. He graduated from Arlington High School in 1959 and went on to earn his degree from Syracuse University in 1963.
Throughout his life, Martin was a dedicated entrepreneur involved in numerous local businesses. Among his most notable ventures were Higgins & Sheer Electronics/Lafayette Radio and the Dutchess Racquet Club, where he combined innovation with community spirit. His name became synonymous with Tennis.
Martin was a devoted husband to Karen Sheer and a loving father to Lisa Stadler (Neil) of Delray Beach, FL; Steven Sheer (Tammy) of Boca Raton, FL; and Tracy Pacht (Douglas) of Calabasas, CA. He is also survived by first wife Carole Sheer and his brother Arnold Sheer (Barbara), along with nephews Jonathan and Jason Sheer (Libby). He is predeceased by his parents Ray and Edward Sheer.
He embraced a blended family with warmth and pride, including stepdaughter Andrea Kirchhoff (Joseph) and stepson Scott Prichard (Jessica). Martin was a cherished grandfather to Sydney Kelly (Jake), Perry Roth (Ryan), Jordi Pacht, Robbie Pacht, Madison Sheer, Jaxon Sheer, Kyle (Kelly), Troy (Jessica), Samantha (Paul), Layla, Scott and Gabrielle. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren MacKenzie, Reese, Will, Elle, and Emma. And his great nephews Jack and Coby and great niece Hudson.
A man of many passions, as a young man, Martin was an expert Ham Radio operator and then became an avid collector/dealer of toy trains. He was once known as "The Train King" of the east coast. He also enjoyed travel, the beach, golf and tennis for much of his life and later discovered a passion for pickleball. He was an avid New York Yankees fan and loved attending the US Open Tennis Championships. A longtime member of the Jewish Community Center and Temple Beth El in Poughkeepsie, NY, Martin’s life was rich with connection and joy.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort and continue to inspire those he touched. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Dementia Society of America https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate.
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