Obituary of Donald B. Martin

Martin, Donald B. “Don” ~ April 15, 1933-April 2, 2013 ~ Peacefully passed away with his family at his side on Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at St. Mary’s Hospital. Don, in his 80th year, was the husband and best friend of Waldtraut “Wally” (Wraase) for almost 59 years. Dear father of Dennis (Denise) of Kitchener, Chuck (Leslie) of Elmira, and Tim (Kelly) of Guelph. Loving Papa of Derek (Jess), Zachary, Jake and Kayla; Chris; Jacqueline and Ryan. Also survived by his niece and nephews Murray (Marilyn) Shantz, Anne (Eric) Bauman and David (Shari) Shantz, and their families. Predeceased by his parents Eli B. and Mary Ann (Brubacher) Martin, his sister Alice Shantz, and his brother-in-law Melvin Shantz. Don was a highly respected local business leader and an avid outdoor sports enthusiast who lived his life to the fullest. He was committed to many projects in Elmira through his membership in service clubs and by holding various civic positions. Some of his many awards included Woolwich Citizen of the Year and his induction into the Waterloo County Hall of Fame. His business and hobbies took him to many different parts of the world. More recently, his time was divided between Florida and Chesley Lake. A lifelong resident of Chesley Lake, he made many significant contributions to the betterment of the lake and the camp. At Don’s request, cremation has taken place. There will be no funeral home visitation. A private family service will be held. A memorial gathering for family and friends to celebrate Don’s life will be held at the Lions Hall, 40 South St. W., Elmira on Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. with fellowship and camaraderie to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to Grand River Regional Cancer Centre, St. Mary’s Cardiac Care Centre or Hallman Chapel, Chesley Lake would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy and may be placed by calling the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira (519-669-2207). Service Summary There will be a memorial for Don at The Gardens, 11 Dunke St. North, Elmira, Ontario on Thursday, August 11th starting at 6:30 pm. A celebration of his life will begin at 7:00 pm. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Elmira Centre for Community Living would be appreciated by the family and may be made through the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira