With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenneth William Martin, of Halifax, age 80. He died peacefully at home surrounded by those who were dearest to him. Kenneth exited this world in the same manner as he lived - with a clear mind and distinct sense of purpose. He was the son of Doris (Levy) and Stephen Martin of Murray Place, Halifax.
The family spent summers in Ketch Harbour and, because he loved it so, he raised his family there. He began his career as an electrician, but his true calling was as a Lieutenant with the Halifax City Fire Department. During his 32 years with the department, he was a founding member of the Honour Guard and devoted his time to the burn unit as an organizer and executive member of the Firefighter’s Burn Treatment Society. He also focused on delivering education in the study of hazardous materials, as a member of The Dangerous Goods Committee, and instructor for Survival Systems.
Ken had a strong sense of justice and a belief in the rights of his brother firefighters and served both as vice president and president of IAFF, Local 268. Because he believed in giving back to his community, Ken was a founding member the Herring Cove Volunteer Fire Department and served as a school trustee.Some of Ken’s happiest moments were spent on the sea or in the woods at Third Pond, especially in the company of his special boating buddies David Gray and Ian Creaser, who both know what it is to love the outdoors.
He was larger than life and wore his beliefs with pride. He leaves a hole in the lives of his family: loving partner Laurie Burnett, his three proud daughters, Sherida (Mark Flemming), Elizabeth (Dave Burgess), Kerin (Scott Purcell), the mother of the girls, Sandra Martin, his grandchildren, David Yeadon, Alex, Kate, and Wyatt Purcell, and his great granddaughter Eva Yeadon.
The family would like to thank the care team (doctors Anne-Marie and Sam and nurses Nikki and Claire) for their compassion during this trying time. A special thank you goes to Dr. Eddie Kinley, who was both his long-term physician and dear friend. A celebration of Ken’s life will be conducted at a later date.
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