George Martel

George Stephan Martel
September 15, 1933 – August 13, 2024

It is with breaking hearts, and yet secure in the knowledge that we will be together again in life ever-lasting that the family of George Stephan Martel announces that he has gone to live with our Heavenly Father.

George leaves behind his wife, Claire of 35 years; his son, Wayne (Ingrid) Martel and his daughter, Jhena Martel, three grandchildren, Kellen, Allegra, & Rayna Martel, and one sister, Lorraine Smorodin of Watrous, Saskatchewan and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves four step-children; Aaron Preston, Robyn (Neil) Oshust, Laurel (Steve) Hawkins, and Cathleen (Glen) Sinclair, and nine step grand-children including his special “Step” Sandrina (Preston).

Awaiting his arrival just inside the gates of Heaven was his large, happy family; his parents, Sebastian and Barbara Martel, and 16 brothers and sisters, who predeceased him. As well as his four-legged Westie buddy, Jake.

George was born in Allen, Saskatchewan and grew up on a farm near Watrous, Saskatchewan; he often recalled happy memories of life on the farm with his family, friends and neighbours and especially the animals.

George began playing baseball as a young man in Saskatchewan, he played for both the Guernsey Junior and Senior Hardball Teams. When he moved to Edmonton, he played for the Jasper Place Clowns, a Spruce Grove Team and then for the Hinton Hi Brights. He would drive out to Hinton to play ball for the weekend and be back in Edmonton to work on Monday.

He has been a long time Atlanta Braves fan, and enjoyed watching Baseball, Hockey and CANADIAN football on TV. He enjoyed attending spring training games in Phoenix over the years. George also enjoyed curling and bowling.

George worked on the family farm in Saskatchewan and for several neighbours until he was 20, then he decided to come to Alberta. He tried Peace River first, but decided Edmonton would be a better choice.

In Edmonton he worked for Armco Drainage and Metal Products where he earned his certificate as a welder, then moved on to get numerous more welding tickets. Many young men apprenticed under him as he shared his knowledge with them.

He was a welder by trade, a farmer, a husband, a father, a step-father, a Grandpa, and a friend, he will be missed beyond measure.

Honouring George’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

We ask that you keep George in your hearts and prayers, remembering his happy, and fun-loving spirit.