MARTIN, Gilles Martin

It is with profound sadness and immeasurable love that we announce the passing of Gilles Martin, who left us peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the age of 74.

Gilles will be forever cherished by his devoted wife, Marie (née Gilbert), whose love and companionship were the heart of his world. Their bond was built on kindness, patience, and a lifetime of shared joy an unbreakable partnership that beautifully reflected the man he was.

He will be deeply missed by his children Cheryl (the late Roch) Giroux, Tina (John) Thebaud, Tammy (Jeff) Soucie, Tracy (Dave) LeBlanc, Diane (Rob) Risi, Johnny (Sherri) Damico, and Francine (Gus) Martin, each one carrying a piece of the lessons, strength, and unconditional love he poured into them. Nothing brought him more pride than his family. Gil leaves behind 23 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, each one the light of his life. Being “Papa” was his greatest joy. His face would brighten at the sight or even the mention of them. He celebrated every milestone, treasured every visit, and loved each of them with an enormous, unmistakable heart. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was a hero, and a constant source of love. They were truly his whole world.

He is also lovingly remembered by his 17 siblings and Marie’s 3 Siblings and many nieces and nephews. A family deeply rooted in love, laughter, and shared memories.

Gil was predeceased by his loving parents Gemma (née Laplant) and Emile Martin, Mary and Cecil Gilbert, and his cherished grandson Rocky Jr. Giroux. We find comfort knowing he is reunited with them now. Gil was a truly selfless man. He lived his life with a generosity of spirit that touched everyone around him. Whether it was offering a helping hand, sharing his time, or putting others’ needs before his own, he made the world softer simply by being in it. His kindness wasn’t loud it was steady, dependable, and deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A hardworking and dedicated man, Gil poured his heart into his auto business he built from the ground up. It was more than a workplace to him it was a space where he shared his talents, his kindness, and his genuine care for others. Over the years, he created not only a business but countless friendships, earning the trust of everyone who walked through his doors. Known for his honesty, his steady hands, and his unwavering willingness to help anyone in need, Gil was the person people relied on the one who would drop everything to make sure you were taken care of.

Outside of work, He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially on the golf course, where he could laugh, relax, and enjoy time with friends and family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Welland Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 29th at 1 p.m. at the Welland Legion, 383 Morningstar Avenue, where family and friends will gather to honour the man whose presence made every room softer and every life brighter.

A burial will take place earlier that morning at 10:30 a.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery, for those who wish to attend.

As an expression of sympathy, the family kindly requests donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in Gilles’s memory.