Martin Sichel

Martin led a remarkable life. His family left Germany in 1937 to escape Nazi rule and settled in Chicago, IL. In 1944 his family moved to Albany, NY. Martin graduated from Albany High School in 1946 and went to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) where he received a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. During this time, he also worked in the General Electric Co-op Program. After completing his master’s degree Martin was employed by General Electric. He took a military leave of absence to join the U.S. Army, where he served from 1954 to 1956.

Following his Army service Martin went Princeton University where he received a PhD. In Aeronautical Engineering in 1961. Martin then accepted a professorship in Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, MI. He spent the rest of his career at the university, retiring as a full professor in 1998. Martin received many honors for his research and mentored many PhD candidates over those years. He was truly a “Rocket Scientist.”

Martin married Ilse Anne Kohn on July 19, 1952. Martin and Anne had three children: David, Peter and Daniel. Martin served for many years as Scoutmaster while the three sons were in Boy Scouts. All three became Eagle Scouts, as had their father. Martin also served as President of the Beth Israel Congregation in Ann Arbor for one term.

In 2013 Martin and Anne moved to the North Hill Retirement Community in Needham, MA to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Martin is survived by his wife of 69 years Anne and his sons David, Peter and Daniel. He is also survived by his four grandchildren Timothy, Emily, Jae and Joshua.

Martin led a wonderful life. He had a kind demeanor and a wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so below.

In lieu of other gifts, memorial contributions can be made to the Martin and Anne Sichel Endowed Graduate Student Award in Aerospace Engineering. (The University of Michigan Engineering Gift Office can be reached at 734-647-7042.)