MD, FRCSC
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert George Martin on October 4, 2022. The son of Florence (Spackman) and John Russell Martin, Bob was born May 14, 1930, in Quincy, Massachusetts. Lyle (Josh) Meredith became Bob’s stepfather after the death of Russell Martin, and a key influence in his early adult years.
Beloved husband of Joan for 64 years, and loving father to daughters Jennifer Martin (Linda), Lori Martin and Meridith White (David). Bob will also be missed by his grandchildren Nicholas, Megan (Munro), Stephan and Tycho, and his sisters Patricia Hanley and Gloria Stennett; nieces Melanie Cornwell (Murray), Lisa Fletcher, Kathleen Hanley Borman (Pieter), Susan Tremblay (Marc) and nephew, Russell Hanley (Lorraine).
Bob completed an MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Western Ontario, mentored by the late Dr. Robert Kinch. He practiced in Sault Ste. Marie for over 30 years with the Algoma District Medical Group at the Group Health Center - a pioneer in community health care in Canada. In later years he served as a locum physician in Yellowknife, Cape Breton, Orillia and Woodstock, and as he neared retirement Bob enjoyed his time assisting fellow surgeons at the Stratford General Hospital well into his 80s.
During his final year in medicine Bob met Joan Kilgour on a blind date. They were married in Stratford on November 16, 1957. Joan and Bob shared an interest in the arts for all their married life - theatre, music and dance. While living in Sault Ste Marie, he enjoyed being involved on the boards of the Algoma Arts Festival Association, the Sault Theatre Workshop, and the Art Gallery of Algoma. He also served as a Board Member of the Ontario Arts Council and was a member (and President) of the Board of Stratford Summer Music.
Bob was part of Rotary International most of the past 60 years and was a founding member of the Sault North Rotary Club. During his time as a member of the Rotary Club of Stratford, Bob received the Paul Harris award.
Much gratitude is felt for Huron Hospice, Avondale United Church, the nurses, physicians, community paramedics, care-coordinators, friends and family who supported Bob during and while in recovery from the health events and procedures he faced.
To honor Bob's wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service held. Gifts of remembrance may be made to the charity of one's choice through the James A. Rutherford Funeral Home, 804 Ontario St., Stratford, ON. N5A 3K1. 519-271-5062.