George Arthur MARTENS

George Arthur Martens passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, at Rosetown & District Health Centre, at the age of 90.  He was born in Rosetown on July 28, 1934, to Peter and Helena Martens. He was the youngest of four children. George attended Deer Hill School until the age of 13 when he withdrew, following the death of his father, and dedicated his time to the family farm.  

George married Esther Barrett on February 25, 1956. They resided on a farm west of Fiske for many years, where they raised their four children.  In 1990, they became proud residents of Fiske. He was grateful for his life surrounded by so many kind, caring people. George served on many boards including the Fiske Mennonite Church and Fiske Rec Coop. He took great pride in farming, particularly his cattle. He had the opportunity to assist in planning the Progress Show at Kindersley Livestock and was very happy to contribute. George believed in working and playing hard, being kind to others, and always helping in any way you are able.  He understood the importance of family and was fond of the many events and gatherings. George and Esther enjoyed numerous adventures visiting Hawaii, Mexico, Las Vegas, and other destinations. They also spent summers camping in their trailer. George was a sports fan. He enjoyed the sport and social aspects equally. Many years were spent curling weekly and competing in bonspiels with friends, attending baseball games, chuckwagon races, and even the occasional horse race.  In later years, he never wanted to miss a game on television. He loved to cheer for his favorite teams and players.

In 2023, George and Esther relocated to the Caleb Village Retirement Community in Kindersley.  They enjoyed the company of many old and new friends.  It felt like home to him. In September 2024, with failing health, they moved to Rose Villa in Rosetown. George received excellent care and loved to tease the staff.

George is survived by his wife of 69 years, Esther Martens; their children, Pat (Ron) Wade, Bev Bors, and David (Vicki) Martens; son-in-law, Kerry Cave; 13 grandchildren, Keith (Chantelle) Wade, Craig (Alicia) Wade, Kim (Kelly) Hawken, Chris Wade (Kaelee Kachur), Melanie (Lyle) Gardiner, Melissa (Steven) Evans, Matthew (Morgan) Bors, Danielle (Bill) Helgason, Jamie (Kevin) Cowell, Lindsey Cave (Dean DeBusschere), Luke Martens, Jill (James) Speir, and Nikki (Braden) Danychuk; 23 great-grandchildren, Olivier, Theodore, Winston, Arthur, Peyton, Addison, Hayden, Deklan, Avery, Kayla, Austin (TJ), Spencer, Rowan, Hendrix, Logan, Kale, Kenna, Tyson, Clara, Kayden, Bruce, Jules, and June; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Helena Martens; daughter, Phyllis Cave; son-in-law, Ron Bors; siblings, Peter (Hertha) Kampen, Adina (John) Klassen, and Mary (Reinhold) Schroeder; and nephews, Don Klassen and Rod Schroeder. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Fiske Mennonite Church.  A livestream of the service will be available to view on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89753897399?pwd=1WyDKSj1Qj1N6bIg2SHCo1XWH4y0P4.1 

A tea will follow at the Fiske Hall to reminisce and honor the life of George Martens.  Donations in George’s memory may be made to Fiske Mennonite Church, Box 89, Fiske, SK, S0L 1C0, or STARS, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570, Calgary, AB, T2E 8M7.