Died quickly and peacefully at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home on August 13, 2012, at the age of 105 years. Predeceased by his wives, Ellen Gregory Martin and Angela Jackman Martin; infant son Michael; Brother Gerard; and Sisters Pauline Martin Dawson and Mary Martin. Leaving to celebrate his long and splendid life are his daughters: Sister Sheilagh Martin (Halifax, Nova Scotia), Mary Margaret Martin Rowe (Toronto, Ontario), and Joanne Fahey (Joe) (Kelligrews, NL). Beloved Grandad of Jennifer Thomas (Larry) (Labrador City, NL), Jillian MacLean (Charles) (Brantford, Ontario) and Caroline Martin-Rowe (Toronto, Ontario). Great-Grandad of Julia Thomas, Josie and Matthew MacLean. Also leaving to celebrate his life are Steve (Denise), Robin, Karen, David (Marie), Shirley and extended members of the Jackman Family. Nieces and nephews in the Dawson, Martin, Battcock and Gregory families, as well as many special friends from his long and rich life in Buchans and St. John’s. Born in St. John’s on July 9, 1907, he was educated at St. Bonaventure’s College (St. John’s, NL), St. Mary’s University and Nova Scotia Technical College (Halifax, Nova Scotia) where he was graduated as a mining engineer. He was a charter member of the Newfoundland Branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy where his work was acknowledged provincially and nationally. Obbie spent 37 of his happiest years in Buchans, 16 of those as general manager, where he was a visionary leader of the development of a vibrant and healthy community. As a dedicated sportsman, he was a pioneer in the building and development of the Newfoundland Amateur Hockey Association. He was a lover of the arts, music, and nature, especially his garden. He was a man who made a difference by his time on this earth. Family wish to express their deepest thanks and appreciation to the staff at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home, especially, 2 west and 2 north. At Obbie’s request, cremation has taken place. Visitation at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Rd., on Wednesday from 7 - 9 pm and Thursday 2 - 4 pm and 7 - 9 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 11 am from St. Pius X Church with inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Flowers gratefully accepted or donations may be made in his memory to St. Patrick’s Mercy Home.
“His life was gentle, and the elements
so mixed in him that Nature
might stand up and say to all the world,
this was a man” - William Shakespeare