Obituary of Mary Ida Christine Martin

Mary was born on December 14, 1934 in Sussex, England to Leslie and Elizabeth Harman, she was the second born and oldest daughter of eight children. Although the family had tough times and endured the second world war, Mary had many fond and funny memories of her childhood. She loved to reminisce, and in later years would be disappointed that she still didn't have all of her brothers and sisters to share those memories with. She would talk about how she remembered her mom and dad sometimes not eating with the family because they said they weren't hungry, but then as she got older Mary found out that it was actually because there wasn't enough food for everyone. She detested the thought of eating another piece of rabbit meat because she ate so much during her childhood, but still enjoyed a piece of bread and dripping, another staple from the wartime. In 1952, Mary married Leslie Hamilton and moved to a nearby village. In 1956, they had a daughter; Patricia. In 1958 Sonia was born, but unfortunately she passed away shortly after birth. In the mid 1960's Mary was reacquainted with Allen (Slim) Martin from Groundbirch who she had initially met when he was a soldier in England during the second world war. In 1968 Mary and Patricia moved to Canada to live in Groundbirch with Slim. It was a huge change for her, not being around her family and friends who she was used to seeing regularly, giving up modern conveniences, becoming accustomed to new ways of living day to day, and of course the bitter winters. Despite not having much money Mary and Slim would scrimp and scrape until they had enough money to visit family and friends in England every few years. Slim passed away in 1989 and Mary sacrificed country living to move into Dawson Creek with Patricia. She always missed her home and its memories in Groundbirch, her neighbors, the birds and animals, and the peace and quiet it had provided. As the years passed by she became more accustomed to city living and understood that her health was better served living in town. She enjoyed knitting and in past years spent hours making toys. She made sure each Christmas that shoeboxes were ready to send away to other countries and she would donate to certain charitable organizations. Mary loved her dogs and cats, often putting their needs above hers. Mary passed away on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 in Dawson Creek at the age of 77 years. A private graveside service was held on Monday, June 25, 2012 in the Mountain View Cemetery. Mary is survived by her Daughter; Patricia, Brother; Fred (Millie), Numerous Nieces, Nephews and her dog Chrissie. Very Respectfully Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium