Obituary of Martin Walsh

WALSH, Martin Hugh - 66, Kennetcook, Nova Scotia. It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Martin on Thursday, April 11, 2013. Martin was born in Toronto, Ontario and resided in Nova Scotia for the last 41 years. He is survived by his soul mate and loving wife of 42 years, Valerie (nee Martin); sisters Noreen (Kevin) Elmes, Orillia, Ont.; twin sister Marna (Al) Moldon, Stouffville, Ont.; brothers-in-law Ross (Joy) St. Catherines, Ont.; David (Susan), Comax, B.C.; Allan (Karen) Victoria , B.C.; Brian (Jean) Fredericton, N.B.; aunts, uncle, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and many wonderful, close friends. He was predeceased by his father John (Duffy), mother Jean, sisters-in-law, Mary Ellen and Carolyn, and brother-in-law Gary. Martin felt his strength in life was the support from his family and friends, especially Valerie. He felt everyone needed to believe in something to serve as a benchmark and guidepost. Integrity, honesty, dedication, dignity and compassion are only a few words to describe his "benchmark". His actions spoke louder than any words! As a member of any team, Martin endeavoured to excel at any task he undertook. His University of Massachusetts degree in Turfgrass Management (Golf Course Superintendent) opened the doors for his employment over the years with his first passion, golf courses, especially the Highlands Links in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. For 6 years, he also influenced his students at the Nova Scotia Community College with his wealth of knowledge and ability to teach. Martin was self employed over the years with a couple of businesses, the most recent being Mr. Chipper Brush Cutting Services. He was an elder with the Kennetcook United Church and served with numerous community organizations like Boy Scouts, Lions Club International and Search & Rescue. Martin's other passion was his service (37 years) with volunteer fire departments. He was a long-serving member of Beaver Bank-Kinsac, Parks Canada and Kennetcook Volunteer Fire Departments. Ten years of this service was dedicated as Fire Chief of the Kennetcook & District Volunteer Fire Department. Cremation has taken place and a funeral with "Firefighter's Honors" celebrating Martin's life followed by a reception will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 20th, at the gymnasium of Hant's North Rural High School (Highway 236) with Chuck Patterson L.P. officating. Donations in memory of Martin can be made to the Kennetcook & District Volunteer Fire Department, C/O Roma Russell, Kennetcook, N.S., B0N 1P0. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of the J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home, Hwy 354, Kennetcook, N.S. ph: 1-902-362-2440 or please visit our web site at www.allenfh.ca to sign the guest book or send private condolences