Passed away at the Sault Area Hospital on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, surrounded by family after a valiant struggle with cancer and Parkinson’s Disease. Loving husband and soulmate of Valerie for 63 years. Father of Elaine (Jim Deluzio), Gillian Roney (Jim) and Nigel. Much loved grandpa of Meghan, Tierney, Ian, Nicholas, Tianna and Connor. Great grandpa of Declan, Luca and Sloane. Missed by his fur buddy Ozzie.
Martin arrived in Canada with his wife Valerie and 3 children in December 1965, leaving his home country of England to provide a brighter future for his family. After a brief time, he began his teaching career at Tech Collegiate which later changed to Lakeway Collegiate and retired from his teaching career at White Pines Collegiate. Primarily teaching technical subjects and guidance he influenced countless students to be positive and to strive to be their best. Right up to the time of his passing he would often be stopped by past students who would ultimately express their gratitude and admiration for his personal teaching style and dedication to his pupils. He was affectionately known as “Boom Boom” by his earliest students and fellow teachers. The explanation of how this name came about seems to be drastically different depending on who you ask. Martin was deeply involved in coaching soccer and badminton and often spoke of the students he had the pleasure of sharing his time with. He truly believed that some of his happiest moments were being in front of a classroom of young minds, and his dedication to his students was limitless. Martin and Valerie were long time members of the Sault Golf Club and after retirement from teaching spent their winters in Florida where they garnered many close friendships and continued an active lifestyle of golf, lawn bowling and pickleball activities. His loyalty to friends was surpassed only by his love and dedication to his family. Martin’s sense of humour and legendary quick wit remained with him till his final moments as would be expected. Martin fought a courageous battle without complaint against the cancer that ultimately ended a full and love filled life.
The family would like to extend its appreciation to Bayshore Nurses (Maryanne), Dr. Voutsadakis, Dr. Sharp, and all the staff at the SAH emergency department and Cancer Clinic for the outstanding care and attention he received during his long battle.
As per Martin’s request there will be no service and cremation has taken place. Memorial donations to SAH Cancer Care Fund or Tracy’s Dream would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). www.northwoodfuneral.com