Richard Alan Martens

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Martens, who went to be with Jesus on August 28, 2026. Born on September 22, 1958, in Vancouver, BC, Richard lived a life marked by dedication, faith, generosity, hard work, and a deep commitment to those he loved. He was a man of few words, but he carried a remarkable presence.

Richard was driven from a young age, leaving home at age 15 to pursue his dream of playing professional hockey. As the goaltender for the New Westminster Bruins, he helped lead the team to two Memorial Cup championships under the coaching of Ernie McLean. Before hanging up his skates, Richard’s talent and dedication earned him a place on the Vancouver Canucks after being drafted by the team.

After leaving hockey, Richard joined his father, Andy Sr., and brother, Andy Jr., embarking on a successful career in real estate and construction. Together, they built a lasting legacy through the development of buildings, subdivisions, a hotel, and a condominium. Alongside these ventures, the family also owned and operated Visions Optical, which grew to 12 locations throughout British Columbia.

Although Richard accomplished much throughout his life, his family was his greatest joy and proudest legacy. He met the love of his life, Corine, and together they shared 37 years of marriage. They raised three children, Brittney (Austin), Nicole (Julian), and Chad (Sally), and Richard was a proud and devoted grandpa to his four grandchildren, Parker, Noa, Wyatt, and Audrey, whom he loved deeply. Providing for and caring for his family was one of Richard’s greatest accomplishments, but above all, he faithfully led them toward the Lord.

Richard was baptized as a teenager and carried an unwavering faith in Jesus throughout his life. He eagerly pursued a deeper understanding of Jesus and Scripture, spending time each day studying and growing in his faith. He was never afraid to talk about what he believed, welcoming conversations with anyone who came to his door. His faith was quiet, steady, and confident, evident not only in what he said but in the way he lived.

As we bid farewell to an incredible husband, dad, grandpa, son, brother, and friend, we will remember Richard for his faithfulness, generosity, patience, quick wit, warm smile, and for the words “what can I get ya?”. We will remember the example he set for us: to open our Bibles, gather around the fire with family, make time for the people we love, and live with purpose and faith.

Though our hearts break with his absence, we are grateful for the lifetime of joyful memories Richard leaves behind. His legacy of strength, determination, faith, generosity, and love will continue through his family and in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private graveside service will be held on September 4th.