Paul Martha, one of the most versatile players and executives in Pittsburgh sports history, died earlier this month at the age of 80.
His family announced the former All-American at Pitt, Steelers player and Penguins executive Martha passed on Feb. 4.
The Wilkinsburg native burst onto the city's sports scene first with Shady Side Academy before playing football and basketball with Pitt starting in 1961, focusing on the former. He was named an All-American halfback for the 1963 season and was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in 1964.
Martha would play six seasons with the Steelers as a halfback, a defensive end and a safety, and then spent one more year in the NFL with the Broncos in 1970.
Martha was also drafted by the Bills in 1964 in the American Football League draft, but chose his hometown team.
After his playing career, Martha earned a law degree from Duquesne University and helped settle the 1982 NFL players strike. He would go on to be an executive with the 49ers, the Pittsburgh Maulers of the United States Football League and with the Penguins.
He was named executive vice president, general counsel and CEO of the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1977 and was part of the organization as they hoisted the Stanley Cup for the first time in 1991. He was a part of three Super Bowl winning franchises with the 49ers in the '80s.
The Pittsburgh teams Martha was a part of offered their condolences Thursday:
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 9, 2023
Paul Martha, 1942-2023.
— Pitt Football (@Pitt_FB) February 9, 2023
A Pitt great, 1963 All-American, @NFL first-round draft pick by the @Steelers and accomplished executive with the @Penguins, among other teams.
RIP to a proud Pitt man and wonderful representative of all of Pittsburgh. pic.twitter.com/ErTsYcteso
“Paul Martha was a giant in Pittsburgh sports history,” the Penguins said in a statement. “He made a huge impact on the Penguins as a senior executive during the DeBartolo ownership, including the team’s first Stanley Cup championship in 1991. He also oversaw the Civic Arena, turning it into one of the most successful venues in the country. We offer our deepest sympathy to Paul’s family and friends.”
Martha had three children and six grandchildren. Martha had been residing at a retirement community in Butler County.
