HANS MARTINS

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HANS MARTINS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hans Guenther Heinrich Martins on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at the age of 82 years. He had been suffering from Parkinson's for many years and spent the last four years at Calvary Place Personal Care Home. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Elfriede; sons, Bernard (Ila) and Ralph (Lois); grandchildren, Christopher, Michelle, Caitlin and Robin, all of Winnipeg. He was born in Bremen, Germany on February 23, 1929 to Dr. Guenther and Helene Martins, nee Thieme. He was predeceased by his brothers, Klaus and Peter; and his sister Gabriele. He is survived by his sister Marie-Luise of Germany. Hans met Efriede Siedler on May 29, 1955. They married in l958 and began a lifelong love. Hans immigrated to Canada in 1951, the beginning of a great love with his new country. He obtained his citizenship in 1958 and was proud to be Canadian. In Canada he worked in several different fields until starting his career with the Provincial Government's Natural Resources department until his retirement in 1993. He was proud especially of his involvement in the building of Duff's ditch. Hans was involved with the early development of what is today the Emergency Measures Organization. He was a proud member of the Independent Order of Foresters including holding a number of Court positions. It was a great joy of his to be a volunteer for the first Wheelchair Pan Am games in 1967. He had a great love for nature which was allowed to flourish by his volunteering with Boy Scouts for many years. While not a big man, he struck fear into the hearts of his son's friends when needed. This was contrary to his easy going and non-judgemental personality. He also had great love for his daughters-in-law, who were the daughters he never had. The family would like to thank the 2 South staff of Calvary Place for the excellent care they provided to not only Hans, but the family as well. In accordance with Hans' wishes, there will be a small celebration of his life from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (tonight) Tuesday, August 9 at Bernard's home. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Parkinson's Society would be greatly appreciated.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 09, 2011