Joe Martens Tribute

MARTENS, Joseph - It is with great sadness that we said goodbye to our cherished father, after a courageous battle with cancer, on June 15, 2009. He has gone to join our mother, Getrude Martens who left this world June 6, 1986, and is at peace at last. Joseph Marinus Martens, born in Leishout, Holland, January 11, 1933, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, knowing he was deeply loved. Survived by his children, Robert (Susan) Martens of KY, Deborah Baker (Chris Williams) of Cambridge, John Martens (Laurie Schneider) of Fergus, Carol (Vincent) Kelly of Branchton, Pamela Martens (Alex H-Boudreau) of Kitchener. A special grandfather to Olivia, Katie, Adam, Kyle (Kathleen), Corey (Amber), Matt, Sarah, Laura, Jesse, Samantha and great-grandfather to our angel, Cadence. Dad immigrated to Canada in 1955 and for the past 47 years lived in the village of Branchton. Though he had many careers throughout his life, most notably running a Color Your World franchise in Cambridge for many years, working as a Realtor with Peace and Watson for 17 years, in his final years for him the job that gave him the greatest sense of pride and accomplishment was serving the community of North Dumpfries Township as acting Mayor for 18 years. It gave him immense pleasure to help people and act as the voice for his community. Dad was a member of GRCA, the President of the Community Futures Association, member of the Hydro Commission, a board member of the Cambridge Memorial Hospital, and a member of Regional Council. In his retirement years Dad lived a much deserved quiet life with his kids and grandchildren and enjoyed the companionship of his friends. Special thanks to Dr. Kilmurry, St. Mary’s Hospital staff, Cambridge Memorial 5th floor nurses, Dr. Chouinard, Dr. May, Dr. Sims, The Red Cross Association, Dr. Thompson and staff at the Forbes Medical Clinic and all the caregivers who treated our father with love and respect.

We are hosting a “Celebration of Life” in Dad’s honor on Thursday, June 18, 2009, at the Ayr Arena between the hours of 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

We will be presenting a Eulogy at the beginning of the celebration sharing loving stories and funny memories of our Dad and offering the opportunity for his friends, colleagues and family to share their stories as well. Cremation has taken place. As an expression o f sympathy donations to the Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to T. Little Funeral Home , 223 Main St., Cambridge.