It is with great sadness that the family of Jerry (“Blackie”) Martin announces his passing on Monday, May 9, 2016 with his soulmate, Diane, and family by his side.
Jerry was born Reginald Gerald on Oct. 17, 1935 to Reginald and Irene (Molly) Martin in Fort Frances, Ont.
Jerry’s older brother, Bobby, was born as a “blue baby” and as a result, Jerry was his legs and carried him to school and everywhere he wanted to go. He was a true loving, caring, and compassionate man while being strong and tough on the outside.
Jerry called himself a “professional cleaner” as he cleaned the banks with his mother every day before school and on weekends.
Jerry was employed by Ontario Hydro for 35 years as a linesman and customer service representative. He was fortunate to retire at the age of 55, which allowed him and Diane to enjoy 26 years at their winter home in Mesa, Ariz.
He made many friends there who quickly became like family. His great sense of humour followed him wherever he went.
Jerry’s children and grandchildren had the opportunity to visit their beloved winter home; and he took much pride in showing them the sites, including the Grand Canyon.
Jerry loved and played all sports. He enjoyed golfing summer and winter in Mesa. He also had a passion for being outdoors, which included fishing, hunting, and working in his garden.
One of Jerry’s greatest passions was being at the hockey rink, both on and off the ice, as a player, coach, and spectator.
He played the sport throughout his years, including on a Junior team in Manitoba and with the Oldtimers’ team and then travelling with them. Jerry loved talking about the team’s trip to Japan.
He also was involved with the Green Furniture team, playing for that team in the 1950s, and then coaching the team from 1962 through 1983 when his son, Bob, played under him.
Jerry passed his love of the game onto his son, Bob, and grandchildren, Zach and our goaltender, Treyden. One of Jerry’s greatest joys was being a “Grampy” and spending time with his grandchildren. He always could get the kids laughing, and always was willing to be their “model” when they wanted to play hairdresser.
Jerry would sing them to sleep on the countless nights spent with him and Grandma. This also included his niece and nephew.
Jerry and Diane also were longtime members of the Sister Kennedy Centre, where they volunteered together for 25 years and enjoyed the socializing and morning coffee chats.
One of his recent cherished travel was an Alaskan cruise shared with Diane, and brother and sister-in-law, Al and Janette.
Jerry was predeceased by his parents; brother, Bob; son-in-law, Tim Perreault; father- and mother-in-law, Chet and Aileen Hanson; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law.
He was united in marriage to Diane Hanson on May 28, 1983.
He is survived by his loving, devoted wife and best friend, Diane; brother and sister-in-law, Al and Janette Martin; daughters, Kim Perreault (Allan) and Tanya Martin Koukos, and son, Bob; grandchildren, Nathan (Leah) DeGagne, Sara (Joel) DeGagne, Zachary Martin, and Pelayia and Alexia Koukos; and great-grandchildren, Treyden and Sophie Calder, and Sirus DeGagne.
Jerry also leaves to mourn his very special niece and nephew, Kelly (Chris) Granrud and Derek Nelson, who were able to spend much time with him.
Jerry will be deeply missed by his family and many friends. He had a wonderful sense of humour and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.
He had a never ending love for his family, relatives, and friends. He will be greatly missed for his everlasting smile.
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 10 a.m. at Green’s Funeral Home in Fort Frances, with Pastor Brian Keffer officiating.
A luncheon will follow at the Memorial Arena auditorium.
A private family interment will be held later.
The honourary pallbearers will be R.H. “Bob” Peters, Bill Borlase, Guy LaFrance, Orest Mihichuk, Ross Pearson, Jean Camirand, Ken Perry, and Jeremy McGuire.
In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to Riverside Foundation for Health Care or Sister Kennedy Centre c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
JERRY (BLACKIE) MARTIN
