July 13th, 1959 – March 18th, 2022
It is with profound sadness that we the family announce the passing of David Jeffrey Martin. Jeff peacefully left this world with his family by his side at Selkirk Hospital on March 18th, 2022, at the young age of 62, after his courageous battle with Cancer.
He will be forever missed and remembered by his best friend and Love of his life, Heather Scalisi, Mother Barbara Martin, Daughter Lindy Dranez (Derek), Stepchildren Lucas and Ainslie, Grandchildren Ava and Ryker, Brother Gary, Brother-in-law Greg Toomer and Nephew Ryan. Extended family members Joe and Gail Scalisi, Sister-in-law Susan Sigurdson (Wayne) and children, Ally, Rae, Kyle and Luke, Sister-in-law Sandra Loeppky (Mark Lanouette) children Eric, Carter and Chloe. As well as many numerous relatives and friends.
Jeff was predeceased by his Father David Martin, his Sister Cheryl Toomer and his Nephew Jeffery Toomer.
Jeff was born in Winnipeg on July 13th, 1959. He grew up in East Kildonan and Graduated from Miles Mac in 1977. Jeff found his love for sports at an early age, he especially loved hockey and football. He spent many years playing for the East End Barons where he formed lifelong friendships. At an early age Jeff learnt the value of hard work, he delivered the Tribune news paper and worked at Safeway saving up enough to buy his own 1st muscle car a 1969 Firebird. His passion for cars especially Chevy’s and dedication to hard work remained with him throughout his life.
He also found another passion – Rock Music! From Tom Petty to Judas Priest to his all-time favourite AC/DC. No one who knew Jeff will ever hear an AC/DC song without thinking of Jeff Martin. Jeff and Heather were avid concert goers and attended many Rock Festivals over the years.
Jeff and Heather took their 1st trip together to Mexico and fell in love with going on adventures together. They got bit by the travel bug and continued to travel and make beautiful memories and friendships over the years. Una Cerveza Por Favor!
Jeff worked with his father at Perth’s for many years. He was offered a position by one of his customers in the automotive industry and that is when he made the move to Pro Body Parts where he started in Sales climbing all the way up to National Distribution Manager. He was greatly respected and admired in the automotive industry, where he was affectionately named the Goat. Greatest Of All Time! When Pro was bought out, he was acquired by Can Am Wholesale Auto Glass who wanted to expand their territory further west. Many former Pro Employees followed him because of the incredible Boss he was. Jeff headed up the start up of Can Am Glass in Winnipeg where he led Can Am’s Winnipeg Branch to # 1 growth in sales.
Jeff was a remarkable man. He would always go above and beyond for everyone. From his personal friendships to his work relationships and most of all his family. Jeff was absolutely the best son a mother could have. After his fathers passing, Jeff went faithfully to visit his mother every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Jeff was a good brother to Gary and his sister Cheryl.
Heather always felt incredibly lucky that Jeff treated her like a Queen. He affectionately called her Snappy, Edna, Birdie and his girl. He always kissed her goodbye whether she was sleeping or awake when he left for work in the morning, and always kissed her hello. He always made sure to kiss her goodnight.
Jeff was a caring father who loved his children very much. We have fond memories of fishing and going to the beach and camping with Dad, listening to Rock and Roll and making up our own words for the songs, feeding the seagulls french-fries, playing football and going for Motorcycle rides. He took us on many trips over summer break and we loved spending time with him.
Jeff was a friend to many and like a brother to Al, Dick and Derrell whose friendships were so dear to him. Many knew him as the Caretaker, Preacher, JM, Junkyard Jeff or the Goat Herder.
We would like to offer our specials thanks to Dr. Ian Alexander for his incredible care and compassion to Heather and Jeff through this difficult journey. We also thank the staff at Selkirk Hospital and the Palliative care team for the wonderful care they provided.
We would like to thank everyone for their support during this time, your visits to Jeff in the hospital and at home helped both him and Heather to get through these difficult times.
Jeff leaves us with a legacy that will never be forgotten and hope that we learn from him. He was the
Greatest
Of
All
Time!
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at a later announced date.
Friends and family are invited to share memories and condolences on Jeff’s memorial page by using the comment field below.
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