Obituary of John James Martens

John James Martens passed away June 29, 2015 at the age of 92. A Memorial Service was held Saturday July 4 at 2 P.M. at the Kingdom Hall with Delbert Sartison officiating. John was born on January 12, 1923 near Wymark, Sask. He was the third eldest in the family. He was predeceased by his Father, Isaac in 1943; His mother, Annie in 1992; His brother Harry in 1980; sister Hilda Davies in 2008; brother Ernest in 2006; and brother Arthur in 2014. He is survived by his sister-in-law Gaye. John attended Oman School and Beattie Collegiate until Grade 10, when due his father’s illness and untimely death had to go to work to support the family. In the 40’s he began working for the W.W. Cooper Co., and continued there when it became The Pioneer Co-op, working in the furniture department and later men’s wear until 1985. He then started his own Painting Company in 1985 and continued until he retired in 1995. John was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses May 27, 1945. His life as a minister was his passion. He loved sharing the good news from the Bible with his neighbors, travelling many a mile to outlying areas to talk to people about God’s Kingdom. His faith and conviction in the Bible promises of a new earth where sickness, pain, sorrow and death would be no more was evident in his life and his conversations. (Rev.21:3, 4) He played a very active role in the congregation as well. He was the Presiding Overseer for many years, The Watchtower Study conductor, as well as sharing many other responsibilities. He spent the last few years of his life in the Swift Current Care Centre. The care he received while there is certainly appreciated. John will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all who knew him. For those wishing Memorial Donations may be made to The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, The Swift Current Care Centre Auxiliary or charity of choice. Parkside Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For further information or to sign the family book of condolences, visit the website at www.parksidefuneralhome.com.