Born in Manitoba on May 9, 1939, to Louise and Arthur Martin, Earnest “Ernie” Martin passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025, with his wife and daughter by his side. Mom ensured he was tucked in, ready for his last ride to reunite with the friends and family who passed before him.
Dad lived an inspiring life, which he shared with his wife Diane; the couple married in 1960. They started their family in Winnipeg, welcoming Scott in 1963, Miles in 1968, and after moving to Thunder Bay, along came Shawna-Lee in 1973.
Dad demonstrated his love for Mom every day. He was her lifelong dance partner. He always made sure to hold her hand and kiss her goodbye before leaving for work. He cherished and protected her until his last breath.
One thing we as kids can agree on is that we could not have had a better father. Dad worked hard to ensure that his family had everything we needed. He took us to work with him any time he could. It is said that when Scott was young, he yelled “Go faster, Daddy!” from the back of a bus full of passengers. On occasion, Miles would take over the wheel when Dad was driving truck, which greatly influenced his own love of trucks and chrome. Both of his sons could work on cars and back in any trailer in a single swing, just like Dad did—learning little gems of wisdom along the way. Shawna-Lee recalls one bus ride with only she and Dad on board, singing their version of “Wolverton Mountain” through the overhead speakers. Dad also may or may not have taken advantage of his driver trainer status, as he was known to have the trainees pick up his kids from school or deliver flowers to Diane on Valentine’s Day.
Whether driving down the road for Greyhound, in a transport truck, or in a shiny half-ton, there was always a life lesson learned when we were in Dad’s passenger seat. When we came to him for advice, Dad provided his perspective and supported us—whether we took it or not. He demonstrated unconditional love, and in doing so, gave us the confidence to build our own lives, knowing he’d be there to lend a hand when we needed one.
Dad loved having grandchildren and was full of joy when the great-grandchildren came along. He had a knack for settling the babies by humming them to sleep. He was known to eat ice cream for breakfast with them, take them fishing with lunch made by Diane, and let them “drive” up to the lodge for more ice cream.
After his retirement from Greyhound, Dad continued trucking and driving motor-coach. And when he wasn’t on the road, he could often be found at the lake in his retirement gift—a fishing boat. The best stories were shared on that boat during long days of fishing. But even better stories came out during cocktail hour, back on shore.
Dad loved his wife, his family, Diane’s cooking, his friends (the Steiners, Shannons, and Aubins, to name a few), trucking and country music, blueberry pie, and the Green Bay Packers.
Ernie’s family would like to recognize the RPNs, PSWs, RNs, recreation therapists, cleaners, support staff, and Dr. Skunta of Hogarth 2N. Their care, skill, and compassion are second to none. They cared for our dad like he was their family—and we care for them as such.
Predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Louise; brothers, Norman, Robert, and Keith; and mother-in-law, Fran Bell.
Survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Diane; children, Scott (Lorre), Miles (Norma), and Shawna-Lee (Mike); grandchildren, Kyle (Kristina), Julia, Brendan (Megan), Karley, Kendall, Marina, Darlene, Kayla, Wassnoode, and Elecktra; great-grandchildren, Carter, Lakelyn, Oliver, James, Teddi-Jane, and Lincoln; brother, Stanley; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A Celebration of Life open house will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Slovak Legion Solarium – 801 Atlantic Ave, Thunder Bay.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Salvation Army, Wesway, or Hogarth Riverview Manor would be greatly appreciated.
“HAMMER DOWN, DAD.”
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
