Margaret Fleurian Martin

1941 – 2025

Margaret passed away peacefully at WRHN@Midtown, surrounded by the love of her family, on October 15, at the age of 84.

Born in Somerset, England in 1941 during the Second World War, Margaret’s early years were shaped by resilience and imagination. In 1951, her father applied to emigrate to either Australia or Canada. Canada came through first, and at the age of 10, Margaret began a new chapter in a new country. One of her most poignant memories from that time was leaving behind her cherished book collection. She and her sister Ann were allowed only one toy each, and both chose the walking dolls they had received the previous Christmas. Margaret was also permitted to bring one book—and she chose The Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton, a story that remained close to her heart.

Margaret’s life in Canada was filled with movement and discovery, shaped by her father’s work and her own adventurous spirit. She met her first husband in Toronto during a bowling outing with a friend, and they married in 1961. Together, they had two children: Arthur and Susan.

The love of her life and best friend, Terry Martin, entered her world in 1981. Their bond was immediate and enduring. They married in 1998 and joyfully renewed their vows this past August, a testament to their deep and lasting connection. They were truly soulmates.

Margaret was a woman of many talents and passions. Her immense love for reading was matched by her skills as a secretary, baker, chef, seamstress, crochet master, and gardener. She found peace and joy in nature, especially during family trips to Algonquin Park, where she felt most at home.

She was a devoted mother to Arthur Zekai (Sheri) and Susan Tonkin (John), and a nurturing figure to many others whose lives she touched with warmth and generosity. Margaret was a cherished grandmother to Mike (Lexi), Andrew, Wil, Greg, and a proud great-grandmother to Ashley, Milton, Travis, Thalia, Eli, and Corbin. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Ann Constable, of the United Kingdom.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Hilda Constable.

She will be remembered for her boundless kindness, quiet strength, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

Cremation will take place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the WRHN Foundation as expressions of sympathy.

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