With heavy hearts and love, we share the news of John Michael Martan’s passing on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the age of 93. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a man of faith, John was dedicated to his family and found strength in his beliefs throughout his life. He cherished every moment spent with those he held dear.
John is survived by his wife and best friend of 69 years, Jean, along with his beloved children: Karen (Roman Walkowiak), Ann Marie (Paul Shackelton), Michael Martan (Marnie), and John Martan. He was a proud grandfather to Amanda Walkowiak, Brian Walkowiak, Matthew Shackelton, Deanna Glassco (Stephen), Olivia Halenda (Ricky), and Mitchell Martan. He also had the joy of being a great-grandfather to Emilie Periard and Weston Glassco. His dear sister Ann Oravec and nieces and nephews Frances Martin, Carolyn Fung, Edward Oravec, and David Oravec will remember him fondly.
John was predeceased by his parents Maria and Michael Martan as well as his brother-in-law Frank Oravec.
A man of quiet humility, John valued life’s riches not in material things but in love shared with others. The relationships he built were what mattered most to him. The principles he instilled-faith, hard work, kindness-and dedication will continue through generations.
Growing up in Timmins, Ontario ignited John’s lifelong passion for hockey. In his youth, he played junior hockey with the Barrie Flyers and Sault Greyhounds. A standout moment for him was winning the Memorial Cup with the Barrie Flyers in 1953.
The lessons he learned from hockey shaped who he became. Values like humility, perseverance, teamwork, discipline as well as kindness were fundamental to John’s character.
After hockey ended for him professionally; John worked at Algoma Steel in the Accounting Department while furthering his business education at Algoma University. Balancing work alongside marriage and family responsibilities showed off John’s strong work ethic along with quiet determination that drove him toward achieving goals.
Once retired from Algoma Steel; John contributed to local education by serving on the Sault Ste. Marie Board of Education for 13 years.
The family wishes to express sincere gratitude towards all caregivers; healthcare professionals; friends who offered compassion care during John’s journey-your kindness meant so much bringing strength during tough times which will always be appreciated deeply.
A special thanks goes out specifically to Dr. Buehner along with Dr. Reich at Sault Group Health Centre plus Bayshore Palliative Nursing Staff-for providing exceptional care filled with compassion dignity directed toward our Dad-you truly touched our hearts providing comfort amidst challenges faced-we’ll forever hold onto this gratitude tightly!
A Memorial Mass celebrating John’s life is scheduled at Precious Blood Cathedral on Wednesday August 5th;2026 starting at 10:00 AM officiated by Father Jeff Shannon-with open arms inviting both family & friends alike-following private interment taking place afterward over Holy Sepulchre Cemetery arrangements managed via Northwood Funeral Home Cremation Reception Centre located (942 Great Northern Rd ,705-945-7758). Fond memories plus expressions sympathies may be offered through www. northwoodfuneral. com
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