Wilbert (Bert) Alexander Martin passed away at his residence, Fairview Personal Care Home, on Thursday, March 01, 2001. Bert was born in 1925 to George and Uretta Martin in Strathclair, Manitoba. He attended elementary and high schools in Strathclair where he was active in track and field as well as hockey. In 1943 he joined the R.C.N.V.R. where he served on the corvett "Petrolia" until 1946. Upon returning home he married Beatrice (Bea) Alison Shaw. Bert purchased a farm through Veterans Land Act where they farmed together for 13 years. He then joined the staff of Veterans Land Act, serving in Swan River, Saskatoon and Edmonton. After serving as District Manager of Northern Alberta he returned to Saskatoon in 1980 as District Manager of Saskatchewan. He was truly dedicated to the Department and to his Veteran's. In 1986 Bert and Bea retired to Brandon where they could be closer to family. Bert's family was very important to him and he took special delight in his three grandchildren. He also loved his sports and was an excellent curler, winning many prizes and trophies. In later years he turned his attention to golf. He also took great interest in Clydesdale Horses, enjoying his brother's and nephews' accomplishments in the show ring. He spent many happy hours in his workshop where he made many pieces of furniture and did household renovations. Throughout his life, no matter where he lived, Bert was an avid Blue Bomber fan. Bert and Bea enjoyed their many nights out dancing, playing bridge, or attending live theatre and musical concerts. He loved to sing, whether on the tractor, in the car or in the workshop, he could be heard singing anything from "The Old Grey Mare" to "The Old Rugged Cross". Bert held the position of President at both the Swan River Curling and Golf Clubs. Most enjoyable for him was his time spent as President of the Swan River Band Booster Club as he worked and toured with wonderful young people. While in Swan River, he served as a town councillor and as a board member of the St. Andrew's United Church. In Saskatoon he was a board member of the Grosvenor Park United Church. Left to remember Bert are his beloved wife, Bea, of 55 years; daughter, Angela (Gary) Brawn, grandson Christopher; son, George (Mary Weckworth) Martin, and granddaughters, Juliana and Georgina. Also surviving are a brother, Clarence (Reva) Martin, sisters, Sybil Haw and Loretta (Joe) Wear, many nieces and nephews. Bert was predeceased by his parents, George and Uretta and a sister, Muriel Marshall. A time of visitation was held at Memories Chapel in Brandon on Saturday, March 3, 2001. The graveside service followed at Marney Cemetery, near Cardale, with Mr. Pat Stelmack officiating. Pallbearers were Calvin and Blaine Martin, and Harvey and Ross Shaw. Donations in memory of Bert may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 203 - 42 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, Manitoba R7A 2B2. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330. Memorials
Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba