George Carl Edward Martin passed away on November 28, 2020 after a lengthy battle with congestive heart failure. 

 

George was born on May 9, 1939 to Joseph Francis Martin and Anne Ingaborg Carlson in Pine Falls, Manitoba. He grew up with his family and siblings Doug (deceased), Shirley, Janet and Alan in McGregor Falls and then Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. He married Elizabeth (Liz) Sylvia Tomchuk on November 4, 1961. On June 22, 2002 he married Kathleen (Kathy) McEwan nee Godson.

 

His lifelong career was with Woolworths, later Woolco, then Walmart. Though he worked long hours, his family always came first, whether it was to be there for activities or sports or simply to lend an ear.

 

George was a humble soul. His life was full of hard work but also many simple pleasures - morning tea to see the sun rise and hear the birds chirp, feeding the chipmunks and blue jays peanuts at the lake, canoeing and fishing, and good food. He was also a history buff and a life learner, always reading books or watching documentaries. He had a competitive edge to him, loving a good game of Canasta. 

 

He always made sure everyone was cared for, encouraging us to strive for more while being kind to ourselves. He always had wise words, sharing his favourite sayings - ‘when you’re up to your neck in alligators it’s hard to remember the initial goal was to drain the swamp’ or ‘roughest weather, toughest sailor ever bred’. You had to listen carefully sometimes as his sharp wit made it hard to tell if he was pulling your leg or being serious.

 

George has left behind a large family of children, stepchildren, grand and great grandchildren. To them, he was dad, Pops, Papa or George. We will all miss his twinkly eyes, his great big bear hugs and his gentle way.

 

The family would like to thank the palliative care team. Without your caring and unwavering care, he would not have been able to spend his time at home surrounded daily by Kathy and family.

 

For those who wish, donations can be made to dad’s favourite charity, Children’s Wish Foundation. 

 

A tribute to George will be posted shortly. The family welcomes stories and photos that you would like to share. 

 

Peaceful journey. We all love you and will miss you deeply.

 

Lisa and Doug, Kylee, Kevin and Wren, and Braden

Lee Ann and Jim, Lauren and Hailey

James and Diane, Cameron and Tanner

Tara and Lee, Mason and Mya

Karen and Ryan, Owen and Hannah

Cam and Sarah, Brandon, Dylan and Rachel