It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brian Martin, at the age of 74 early on August 30, 2019. Proud and loving uncle to Bruce, Tim, Ken and Todd. Pre-deceased by his brothers, Ken Sr. and David, and his niece Shari. He lovingly supported both his mother, Marjorie, and Aunt Hazel into their golden years. Growing up in Abbotsford and Courtenay, Brian went to England after high school on a drama scholarship and eventually into the writing business once back in Canada. He wrote for “Ma” Murray’s Alaska Highway News in Fort St. John and then the Calgary Herald. He loved the north and headed back to work for the Yukon government, freelanced and reported for the CBC there. Brian eventually returned to the big city and joined the Journal of Commerce where he moved up its ranks over 30 years to editor and then publisher. Brian had an incredible talent for storytelling and wasn’t one to mince words.
His desire to connect and give back to the community brought him to Northwood United Church in 2002 where he served as Board Member and was instrumental in raising money to repair the church’s roof; as well as feeding the hungry, running the church’s Spring & Fall Plant Sale and generally making sure those in need were taken care of. Brian was an avid gardener, reader, and proud foster parent of several felines, birds and well-fed squirrels throughout the years.
Brian was an old soul and truly one of a kind. We will remember him for his kindness and unqualified generosity to countless people and organizations, not to mention his wicked sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by the many friends and family who love him. A memorial service will be held at Northwood United Church in Surrey at 8855 156 St. on Saturday, December 7 at 1:00 pm. Any charitable donations would be gratefully accepted by the church and used to continue the many projects in which Brian was involved.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18