Keith Marden, Sr., “The Captain” of Captain Marden’s Seafood, a much-loved Wellesley restaurant and fish market, passed away peacefully on July 23, his family announced on social media.
“The Captain” started the business with his brother, Edgar, and father, Roy in 1945,” read the post. “He touched the lives of so many during his 102 years of life whether it was in the fish market, restaurant, around town or on the golf course. His hard work and strength of character made Captain Marden’s the business it is today and we will honor his legacy each and every day to the best of our abilities.”
Marden’s wife, Shirley, passed away in 2023.
The family sent us Keith’s full obituary, including information about services, below:
Keith Arnold Marden, Sr. of Wellesley and Brewster, MA passed away at home peacefully on July 23, 2025, at the age of 102. Born October 13, 1922 he was the son of the late Winifred Locke Marden and Roy Marden. When asked where he was born, he would reply “second floor, back bedroom” referring to his childhood home in Lockeport, Nova Scotia.
Keith’s father, a fisherman, moved the family to Belmont, MA seeking better opportunities. Keith attended Belmont Public Schools before graduating from Newton Technical High School. He proudly served the U.S. Navy as a submarine periscope specialist during World War II and the Korean War and received his U.S. citizenship aboard a carrier ship. He met the love of his life, Shirley Marryat through his late brother, Edgar and was married for seventy years until Shirley’s death in November 2023.
After returning home from the war, Keith joined his father and brother in the family business, Captain Marden’s Seafoods in West Newton, later expanding their legacy by opening the Wellesley location in 1959. He was especially proud to have his children, grandchildren and nephew, Richard all involved in the family business. His long-time employees were an extension of family to him, and he was thought of as a second father to many. Affectionately referred to as “The Captain” or “Cappy”, Keith was known for his heartwarming smile and gentle disposition which endeared him to an ever-widening circle of friends and admirers.
Together, Keith and Shirley put down roots in Wellesley where they became active and beloved members of the community. He served as a Town Assessor, 41-year director of Wellesley Bank, and Little League coach. Keith and Shirley were long-time members of Wellesley Country Club and Eastward Ho!, where he could often be found playing golf or dining with friends. A devoted Red Sox season ticket holder, Keith loved attending games and later watching his team on the television. He would tell you the secret to a long and healthy life was eating salmon, which although is true, was spoken by a truly successful salesman.
Keith is survived by his son Kim (Valerie), daughter Nancy (Peter), grandchildren, Devon Goodall, Hillary Goodall, Ryan Goodall, Roy Marden, Caroline Marden, Andrew Marden and Emma Marden. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Wellesley Hills Congregational Church on Thursday, July 31 at 3:00 p.m.
