RICHARD MICHEL MARTEL

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Michel Martel, our loving Husband, Dad, Pepère, on Saturday September 30, 2023, at the age of 74.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Alice (née Gervais); daughter Roxanne (Brent) Barrett and grandsons Samuel, Aidan, Matthew, Owen; daughter Rachelle and grandson Colton; siblings Rolande Wilcott, Marie Neveux, Georgette (Paul) Fontaine and sister-in-law Elva Martel; in-laws Betty (Hervé) Vermette, Lionel (Michele) Gervais, Denis Gervais, Annette (Tom) Westendorf, Anita Gervais, Pat (Maurice) Carriere; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Richard is predeceased by his parents Henri & Laura (née Dubé); siblings Ned (Phyllis) Martel, Maurice (Patsy) Martel, Charles Martel, Gabrielle (Gerard) Caille, brother in-laws Sylvio Wilcott & Norbert Neveux.

A country boy at heart, Richard grew up in St. Pierre-Jolys, MB. Richard and Alice met at the Goulet Street Salisbury House in 1968. They married in 1970. They enjoyed many adventures together. Richard’s work as an industrial mechanic (CWB), welder fitter and millwright moved them to Thompson, back to St. Pierre-Jolys, St. Malo, New Brunswick, and Petersfield before settling in Winnipeg in 1983 to continue raising their family. Due to illness in 2010, Richard reluctantly retired early from Arne’s Welding, a place where he enjoyed the work and his co-workers.

Dad was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether it was building a garage, deck, fence, putting together swing sets, fixing a washed-out road, or small jobs around the house, he was always there.

Richard had a great love of riding and looked forward to his many motorcycle road trips. Many were with his nephew Daniel Martel, friends Jacques & Denyse among others. He also enjoyed solo rides and made many friends along the way.

Richard had a passion for music. He enjoyed playing guitar and piano, singing, performing live music and jamming with his friends. He was creative and loved working with his hands. He enjoyed drawing, painting, woodworking, welding, baking pies, and perfecting his pizza dough recipe with Alice for their Saturday night pizza. A proud moment this summer was giving each of his family members handmade quilts he lovingly made. He passed on many of these interests to his grandkids encouraging them every step of the way.

Dad was a kind, empathetic and gentle soul. He enjoyed spending time with his family and sharing a good laugh with his great sense of humour.

In the later stage of his illness, he developed an obsession for building Lego which he spent many hours of quality time building with his grandkids, daughters, son-in-law and Alice.

A special thank you to Dr. Marie Loewen and Dr. James Johnston. Our family expresses a heart felt thank you to the entire staff of the palliative care team at Riverview Health Centre for your compassionate care.

As per Richard’s wishes, no formal service will be held.

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Ride on Dad.

Go enjoy the day.

We love you.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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