JOHN ERNST MARTENS

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

• I send my heartfelt condolences to Hedy and all the children and grandchildren. May God be with you as you grieve your enormous loss. I remember him singing the St. John and St. Matthew Passions. It was so inspirational. Lloyd - Posted by: Lloyd Penner (friend) on: Mar 01, 2022

• Dear Mrs Hedy Martens - my condolences on the passing of your husband, John. He was my Grade 5 teacher in Steinbach in 1958-59, and made an impression on me then, but only later did I realize that he became one of the most notable tenors in Canada. We reconnected some years ago. Probably one of the last public performances he did was in the old Chortitz church in 2015 when he sang “The Lord’s Prayer” at my request. We were moved as his great voice filled that old building as few voices ever have. We all grieve with you. - Posted by: Ernst Braun (former student) on: Feb 17, 2022

• John was a hero. We shall never forget the strength and beauty of his voice, his agility on the framework as he built his summer cottage, his splendid stories, but above all his gentleness and compassion (as so eloquently conveyed in the eulogies of the members of his family). Hedy, my heart goes out to you at this time. May John rest in peace. - Posted by: John Tanner (Friend and admirer) on: Feb 12, 2022

• I just want to say sorry for your loss. God bless you. Charlene P. - Posted by: charlene pankratz (former student at westgate) on: Feb 11, 2022

• My thoughts are with you, Hedy and family, on John's passing. John was one of the most influential musical mentors in my life, both in his singing and conducting, but especially in his many personal qualities and gifts he shared with me and many others as a friend and advisor. A great story teller as well! What a loss to us all. RIP, friend. - Posted by: Leonard Ratzlaff (Friend, music colleague) on: Feb 09, 2022

• Dear Hedy and family - Sincere condolences on the loss of your husband and father. What a gift he had and how he blessed our whole congregation PAMB in the 1960's when he sang. He was my parents favorite singer -David and Helen Klassen and they continued to follow him as the years progressed. He gifted us as he did many others by singing at our wedding 57 years ago. When I read about your many moves, Hedy, what a supportive partner you were uprooting your family and moving so many times, to allow John to further his career. May God grant you His peace as you mourn John's loss yet celebrate a life well lived. - Posted by: Roma Klassen Niessen (Portage Ave MB CHURCH MEMBER ) on: Feb 08, 2022