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Visitation:
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Friday October 10, 2025
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Val Martin was born on December 31, 1944, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, where he grew up as part of a large and loving family. He later moved to Toronto with his mother and siblings, where he spent most of his adult life.
Val worked for many years in construction, earning a reputation for his skill, reliability, and quiet pride in a job well done. He loved being outdoors — often bicycling through the city or spending weekends in the countryside with his children at their family camper. A hands-on learner with a creative spirit, Val discovered a lifelong passion for woodworking, finding joy in shaping and crafting with care.
In his later years, he continued to build and create, crafting artisan gifts and keepsakes often adorned with his partner Gil’s beautiful paintings. Together they restored and refinished furniture, sharing a deep appreciation for upcycling vintage and well-loved pieces, giving them new life through their creativity and teamwork.
Val and his beloved partner, Gilberte Cofell, shared 25 wonderful years together. Gil fell for Val at first sight — captivated by a blue-eyed, handsome man with a smudge of cream cheese on his face. They made each other laugh and stood by one another with loyalty and love. In 2011, they moved to Blenheim, Ontario, drawn by the quiet country life and the friendly community near Gil’s hometown of Leamington. There, they built a peaceful and happy life surrounded by family and friends.
Val will be remembered for his gentle nature, quick wit, and unmistakable laugh — a shy man with a big heart whose kindness and humour drew people to him wherever he went.
He will be deeply missed by his children, Evelyn (Mark Watts) and Ethan (Rebecca Martin), and his cherished grandchildren Benjamin, Thomas, Aubrey, and Logan. He also leaves behind his loving partner Gilberte, her daughter Ré (Nigel Peña), and their children Sydney and Bryce, who brought great joy to his later years.
Though distance often separated them, Val’s love for his family never wavered. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren, celebrating their milestones and cherishing every visit, call, and photo shared. His heart was always with them, and his family will forever hold him close in theirs.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 10th, from 2–4 p.m. at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation www.heartandstroke.ca/how-you-can-help/ways-to-give/legacy-giving made in Val’s honour are welcome.
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December 31 1944 October 2 2025
blenheim community funeral home
Death notice for the town of: Blenheim, Province: Ontario
death notice Val Martin December 31 1944 October 2 2025
obituaries notice Val Martin December 31 1944 October 2 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Val Martin December 31 1944 October 2 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
