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Henry Martins

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Henry grew up on a farm in Yarrow, B.C. He invited Jesus into his life as a teen and kept his faith for his entire life. At 21, Henry moved to Vancouver, where he met the love of his life, Clara. Henry worked 35 years in Vancouver’s lumber industry. In 1968, the family moved to Clearbrook, B.C. Henry shared his love of the outdoors with his children, with many memorable camping trips and Father’s Day fishing trips. He played trumpet, trombone and harmonica and, in his early years, played baritone with the Salvation Army Street Band in Vancouver. He had a strong work ethic and retired at 58, giving him more time to travel, garden, bowl, camp and fish. Henry faithfully attended church with his family and spent 8 years serving the Boys Brigade. He volunteered at the MCC thrift shop in Abbotsford for 20 years after retiring. He enjoyed growing plants, designing birdhouses and creating wind chimes for MCC. In 2015, Henry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He and Clara moved to Kelowna, B.C., to be near their daughters. Many of Henry’s talents are reflected in his descendants who became teachers, musicians, innovators, athletes, farmers and gardeners.

  • Birth: June 14, 1931
  • Birthplace:
    Humboldt, Sask.
  • Death: December 21, 2016
  • Parents:
    Henry & Louisa (Voth) Martins
  • Married:
    Clara Nikkel, Oct. 10, 1954
  • Family:
    Clara; children Phillip (Sandra), Marlene (Barry) McPherson, Beverly Haak, Pauline (Chris) Robinson; 9 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 1 brother
  • Church:
    Bakerview MB, Abbotsford, B.C.
  • Baptism:
    Yarrow (B.C.) MB, 1948