Obituary of Gilbert Mathias Martz

Gilbert Mathias Martz

(February 21, 1930 - January 28, 2020)

Gilbert Mathias Martz of  Heisler passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at the age of 89 years.

Gilbert was born to Joseph and Hannah Martz on February 21, 1930. He grew up on the family farm at Heisler and settled in the area after marrying Alma (Schulte) of Strome. They farmed together for a few years until Mother Nature chased them into town where Gilbert became a man of business. With Alma’s help, Gilbert successfully ran Martz Hardware for many years and drove school bus for 37 of those years. Over time eldest son Brian joined the business and it grew to include more than one venture, and nothing made Gilbert happier than when Brian took over when he and Alma retired. In support of his community, Gilbert also involved himself in local politics, the volunteer fire department, was a church usher and council member and (of course) he loved curling.

Gilbert will be missed by Alma, his wife of 68 years; one son Ron (Wanda) Martz; four daughters Deb (Ken) Holt, Lana (Norm) Floré, Connie Martz,  Gail (Mike) Kipta; and one daughter-in-law Lori Martz.

He is also remembered by his nine grandchildren; Christine (Mike) de Graaff, Laura (Jason) Hill, Jonathan (Jennifer) Holt, Chantel (Dylan) Alaric, James (Karen) Holt, Devin (Lauren) Floré, Ryan Martz, Brandon (Rylee) Martz and Danita Holt. Gilbert’s eleven great-grandchildren will continue to hear and share stories of him for years to come.

It helps to know he has joined Brian who passed away in 2006. Gilbert is also predeceased by his parents Joseph and Hanna Martz; as well as his brothers Leander, Ralph, Melvin and Norman; and his sister Rita. He is survived by his sisters Theresa, Angela and Florence.

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to everyone in Camrose and Wetaskiwin who helped us look after Dad over the past year. He was 89 when he passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.
 

A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 21, 2020 from St. Martins Roman Catholic Church, Heisler with Rev. Carlos Nunez officiating. Inurnment has taken place in the St. Martins Roman Catholic Church Cemetery.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Gilbert's memory may be made to Parkinson Society of Alberta, or to the charity of one's choice.