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BORN
1932
DIED
2021
FUNERAL HOME
Shirley MARTIN Obituary
November 20, 1932 to September 16, 2021
Shirley passed away peacefully at her Grimsby, Ontario home with her sons John (Lesley) and Chris (Kimberly) at her side. Her loving husband Jack, who was the wind in her sails for more than 69 years, predeceased her by 21 days. Shirley was an amazing role model, and fiercely proud of her grandchildren Carter, Lauren, Preston, James, William and Livia. Shirley's life was a vivid illustration of what a passionate and purposeful person can accomplish. She started her first job as a switchboard operator with Bell Canada at the age of 14 to help support her widowed mother. She worked her way up the ranks, while simultaneously helping Jack on the family farm, before retiring with 36 years of service.
Throughout her life Shirley was committed to community service and volunteerism. With those values in mind she successfully ran in the 1984 Federal election to represent the riding of Lincoln. During her 9 year career as a Member of Parliament she served in Cabinet with responsibilities that included Transportation and Indigenous Affairs. She was also a member of the Canadian delegation to the United Nations. Most important to Shirley though was helping the people and communities she represented.
After leaving politics she dedicated her time to community projects and organizations including McNally House, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, the Grimsby Museum, and many others. Shirley was once quoted as saying "you don't do things being mindful of a reward. You do it because you see a need and want to help."
The Martin family would like to sincerely thank all the amazing people who supported Shirley. Especially Mary and Winnie, the team at McNally House, and the nurses and caregivers who made Shirley feel safe, comfortable and loved on her journey home to Jack. Donations to McNally House would be welcomed.
Visitation for Shirley and Jack will take place at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Friday, September 24, 2021, from 3-5 and 6-9 p.m. A private family service and interment at Grimsby Mountain Cemetery will take place. In accordance with provincial regulations, there is a limit to the number of visitors who may attend at one time. Please RSVP in advance for the visitation on Shirley's tribute page at www.smithsfh.com or by calling the Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shirley MARTIN
8 Entries
Benoit Bouchard
October 26, 2021
A great friend of mine and a mentor. Shirley was minister of State for Transport when I was the minister (1988-1990). She was a wonderful women and a great advisor in a very complex environment. I will always remember this wonderful smile.
Benoit Bouchard
Member of the Parliement and minister (1983-1990)
Sonia and Tom Kulakowsky
September 29, 2021
Dear John, Chris and families!
My husband Tom and I were so sorry to hear about the recent passing of your wonderful parents.
We were their friends and neighbours for almost 20 years on Ridge Road.
And up until a couple of years ago exchanged Christmas cards and pictures of our expanding families.
We have many memories of meals shared, lively conversations and good times.
Remember that those you love, don’t go away.
They are with you always.
Lovingly remembered,
Sonia and Tom Kulakowsky
Johanna Jorritsma
September 28, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Rob Nicholson
September 23, 2021
Dear Chris and John,
Arlene & I are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear parents. I had the honour of working as a colleague with Shirley for 9 years in Ottawa. I remember crossings the country with her on the Child Care committee that she chaired. She did an outstanding job for Niagara and for Canada. God Bless Shirley & Jack.
Rob & Arlene Nicholson
Ray Patenaude
September 22, 2021
Not only was i lucky to meet Mr. & Mrs Martin, but also their sons John & Chris. While working for Shirley on Parliament Hill (her driver) it was a rewarding experience. She made everybody feel like somebody.
Our deepest sympathy to such a wonderful family.
Ray & Pierrette
Patenaude (Ottawa)
Marni Penny (daughter of Ivy and Nick Pawlik)
September 20, 2021
My Mother Ivy (dec'd) and Shirley were childhood friends which continued for the majority of their lives. My Mom admired Shirley's progression in politics as she would speak about it often. On behalf of my parents Ivy (Chasty) and Nick Pawlik please accept our sincerest condolences.
Wendy McManus
September 20, 2021
I have dealt with Shirley many times o er the years and she was such a beautiful, kind person. She will be greatly missed. Wendy McManus
Marnie Spears
September 18, 2021
John and Chris and families, I am so very sorry for your loss of two loving parents in such a short period of time. I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Shirley at Bell for many years, and subsequently to support her in her political life , meeting Jack on numerous occasions. How fortunate for you to have had such exemplary role models in your lives, for they were caring, committed Canadians whose lives were focused unselfishly on helping others, making a positive difference in all they undertook! Such a loss for all ! I feel privileged to remember our many vigorous conversations solving both customer service issues at BellCanada or Citizen issues with government. Thinking of you all with warmth and affection, sincerely, marnie spears
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
Memorial Events
for Shirley MARTIN
Sep
24
Visitation
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Stonehouse Whitcomb Funeral Home11 Mountain Street, Grimsby, ON L3M 3J7
Sep
24
Visitation
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Stonehouse Whitcomb Funeral Home11 Mountain Street, Grimsby, ON L3M 3J7
Funeral services provided by:
Stonehouse Whitcomb Funeral Home11 Mountain Street, Grimsby, ON L3M 3J7