September 5, 1933 – March 19, 2025 

Gordon Gregory Martin passed away peacefully in Kamloops on March 14, 2025, aged 79. 

Gordon was born on October 6, 1945, in Chatam, Ontario. He later moved to Vancouver, British Columbia with his family, enjoying summers at Cultus Lake sailing, waterskiing, and swimming. From a young age, he had a soft spot for the women in his life, always helping and caring for his mom and little sister Jan. Gordon met the love of his life, Darlene, in 1968 while serving in the Canadian Air Force, where he proudly flew the tutor jet (Snowbird). Gordon chose to leave the Air Force in 1969 so that he could put down roots and build a family with Darlene. They resided in Victoria and Nelson before settling in Kamloops with their three young girls in 1980. He will be dearly missed by his daughters Cathy (Krista) of Abbotsford, Pamela of Kamloops, Carla (Rob) of Kamloops, and grandchildren Andrew, Lauren, Ashley, Nolan, Lucas, Erin, and Cruz. One of three children to Norman and Margaret Martin, he will also be missed by his surviving sister Jan (Richard), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. 

Gordon was a devoted husband and a true family man. Gordon often recalled the night he first noticed Darlene at a party and made sure he got a dance! Over the years, their daughters cherished watching their parents dance as Gordon guided Darlene with an easy grace and a twinkle in his eye. He played the piano and accordion often in the girls’ early years, while they danced to his upbeat tunes. Gordon and Darlene enjoyed hosting out-of-town guests, socializing with family and friends, date nights out, shopping together, watching Kamloops Blazer games and weekend football, leisurely drives, DQ treats, and countless walks. They also shared a love for travel, going on many trips with their family and close friends. One of Gord’s most memorable adventures was a canoe trip through the Bowron Lakes, for which he relentlessly prepared in typical fashion! 

A deeply involved and caring father, Gordon’s biggest source of pride was his three girls. A “feminist” before the times, he encouraged his daughters to follow any dream or career they desired – he truly believed they could do anything! Along with Darlene, he was their biggest supporter, attending countless sporting events, sometimes coaching, often volunteering, and always cheering the loudest. More than a fan, he was also their first and most constant teacher, patiently sharing his extensive knowledge, imparting valuable life skills, and encouraging them. As a grandfather, he brought the same pride, energy and devotion. Whether taking his grandchildren to the park, Blazer games, swimming, the Lake, telling them “talk-a-stories”, playing “stuck in the mud,” teasing them relentlessly, or watching their various activities, he made sure to fill their time with fun, laughter, and love. 

In his professional life, Gordon had a rewarding 25-year career as a manager at the Worker’s Compensation Board of BC, following which he built his own successful consulting business. He enjoyed being self-employed and the opportunity to channel his knowledge, determination, and leadership into his work with his clients. One of his greatest joys was achieving a shared dream with Darlene when they acquired their beloved property at Caravans West at Shuswap Lake — a place filled with treasured memories of family, friends, time with his grandchildren, bike rides, walks, watersports, and more! 

Gordon’s love for the outdoors never wavered — he found joy in camping, windsurfing, canoeing, waterskiing, golfing, downhill skiing, and tending to his yard. He learned pickleball later in life, embracing the game with his signature enthusiasm and determination. Known for his corny jokes and playful spirit, Gordon loved nothing more than bringing a smile to others. Even in his final days, the twinkle in his blue eyes never faded. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved Darlene, going on walks and dancing together once more. 

A memorial service will be held at Schoening Funeral Home in Kamloops on April 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Should friends desire, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of British Columbia. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Martin family.   

• Date : 2025-03-13
• Location : Kamloops