It is with great sadness the family announces the sudden passing of Lyle Martin, 79, of Fort Frances, Ont., on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016 at La Verendrye Hospital in Fort Frances.
Lyle was born on April 6, 1937 in Devlin, Ont. to Alex and Eileen Martin.
He was united in marriage to Betty Jean Gosselin on May 28, 1960.
As a young man, Lyle worked for the MNR, where he helped build Quetico Provincial Park with his brother, Art.
Lyle later turned to his passion: working on vehicles. He started out working as a mechanic with his Dad at his Texaco service station and later bought Pacific 66.
He and Betty also purchased the Modern Vee Motel and worked these two businesses side by side.
Lyle later retired from the Fort Frances Jail, after which he and Betty spent many years travelling.
Lyle’s greatest passion in life was his family. He spent as much time as possible with his children and grandchildren, enjoying a variety of activities.
He also enjoyed many visits from his friends and neighbours while working in his woodworking shop on many projects.
Lyle will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Betty; children, Terry (Dawn) Martin of Fort Frances, Ont., Deborah (Kevin) DeGagne of Thunder Bay, Ont., and Bradley (Evelyn) Martin of Fort Frances, Ont.
He also will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Kiel (Megan), Scott, Jeremy, Amber, Chelsea (Cale), Lucas, Alyssa, Samantha (Chandler), Jessica, and Cassidy; and great-grandchildren, Teara, Liam, and Freya.
Lyle also is survived by his siblings, Rodney (Marg) Martin, Frank (Renee) Martin, and Geraldine (Ed) Armstrong, sister-in-law, Dianne Martin, and childhood friend, Brent (Betty) Sand, all of Thunder Bay, Ont.; and numerous nieces and nephews who were very dear to him.
Lyle was predeceased by his parents, Alex and Eileen Martin; and brothers, Donald and Arthur Martin.
As per Lyle’s request, a private family service will be held at a later date in the Devlin Cemetery.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com
LYLE JOHN MARTIN
