Martin Joldersma

Martin Joldersma - March 14, 1952 to March 11, 2023

Unexpectedly at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, due to cardiac complications after a brief acute illness, just three days shy  of his 71st birthday.

Martin was a devoted and generous dad to Anne, Emily (Michael),  and Charlotte, and always wanted the best for them. He would  drive any distance, move any furniture, come to any event, and  support any endeavour. We love and miss you, Dad.

Loving big brother to Minnie, Clarence (Grace), and Trudy (Bill).

Valued friend to former spouse Mary and devoted longtime friend  to so many others. Step-grandpa to Jack, Kate, and Alex, and  uncle and cousin to the many Joldersma and Beldman family  members.

Pre-deceased by his parents Jan and Geertrui (Beldman) Joldersma.

Born in the small town of Hagersville, Ontario, Martin grew up on a farm, the eldest of four. Losing his own father suddenly,  Martin took on hard work and responsibility at the young age of  14. His incredible work ethic never wavered throughout his life.

A true Renaissance man, Martin was a talented actor, singer, and  musician, taking on the lead role in West Elgin Dramatic Society  productions like The Music Man and Pirates of Penzance, as well  as being a long-time member of London's Pro Musica choir and  other community choirs. He was also an accomplished pianist,  organist, and trombone player, using his talents more recently as an enthusiastic member of the West Elgin Community Band.

An inspired gardener, cook, amateur architect, and gifted  carpenter, Martin's creativity was boundless. If he could design  or build it, he would. He enjoyed puttering and always having a  project on the go. He also loved reading and was a complex  intellectual man of strongly held convictions.

Martin was devoted to nature, an avid birdwatcher throughout his  life, and he loved camping and canoeing. He also travelled widely and in 2018 led a family trip to the Netherlands, where he  enjoyed flexing his fluency in Dutch. His memory for the past was unmatched and he loved sharing a good story.

Called to the bar in April 1982, Martin practiced law for nearly  41 years, the vast majority of that time spent supporting Dutton  and the West Elgin region. Always contributing to civic life,  Martin also gave generously of his time to multiple boards and  societies. He was a well-respected advisor to many and will be  deeply missed in the community.

Our gratitude to Martin's long-time legal assistant Melanie for all she has done and all she continues to do.

Thank you to the staff at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital for  their care and efforts.

Visitation will be held Friday March 17, 2023 from 7:00-9:00 pm  at Arn Funeral Home, 193 Shackleton St.  Dutton [519-762-2416 and  Saturday, March 18, 11:00 am until the time of the Funeral  Service at 1:00 pm. Reception after the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Nature  Conservancy of Canada or the Backus-Page House Museum.

" I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love,

If you want me again look for me under your boot-soles. "
- Walt Whitman

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