Obituary of Allan Martin

It is with tremendous sadness that we announce that Allan Bell Martin passed away on September 9, 2023.

Allan (“Al”) was born June 19, 1950, to the late Blake and Cora Martin, and he was one of seven siblings – Verna (Don), and several siblings who have passed away before him: Everett (Carolyn), James, Reginald, Vanda (Leo), and Yvonne (Oscar). He grew up in Westplain, but spent most of his life in Selby, where he lived with his beloved wife, Elizabeth (“Betty”). Al’s greatest joy was his family - he and Betty were married for more than 45 years, and he was the cherished father of Danyal (Josh), Krissy, and Trevor (Sarah), and a much-loved grandfather to Bryanna, Kobe, Libby, Macy, Marlie, and Remi. Al was an excellent storyteller, and he always had some tale to share of mischief or misadventure (often at his own hands). He loved hunting, tinkering with things in the backyard, and dreaming up plans for what he would do if he won the lottery. His favourite pastime in the last year and a half has been early morning snuggles with his “Sweet Pea”, and he and Bryanna had developed strong opinions on the Wiggles. Al was known for coming up with creative and sometimes unusual solutions to problems, and he could almost always be counted on to find a better or faster way of doing something. He could be stubborn as a mule, but he was also kind, and quick to offer assistance or support to the people around him. He loved his family and friends fiercely, and he was loved by them in return. He will be remembered for his big laugh and even bigger hugs.

His family would like to extend a special thank you to the excellent nurses and personal care assistants on Kidd 9 and Davies 4 at Kingston General Hospital, as well as to family, friends, and neighbours who’ve offered support, especially over the last few months. At Al’s request, there will be no funeral or service, but his family loves hearing stories about Al – please reach out if you have a story to share. In lieu of flowers, his family encourages you to donate to the charity of your choosing, and to hug the people around you.