Tribute

It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of Martin Henry Buck, on May 13, 2023 at the age of 75.  Martin was born in Victoria, BC and Vancouver Island was his home the majority of his life.  He will forever be remembered with immense love by his wife Maureen, as well as his many family members and friends.

Throughout his life, Martin devoted time & care to others.  He was most proud of being one of the first Directors of Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society, which was designed to provide housing for the physically and mentally challenged, and has now grown to house over 600 residents, including seniors and families.  Other organizations he proudly became involved with were the Queen Alexandra Centre for Children, setting up sports programs for children with physical disabilities, and he became President of the Vancouver Island Chapter of the Telecommunications Employee Community Fund which raised funds for numerous charities.  Martin was also a member of the Duncan Cowichan Festival Society. Duncan Chamber of Commerce, Oliver Rutherford Community Association, and was a proud sponsor and supporter of the Cowichan Capitals.  In his earlier years he coached teen hockey, little league baseball, and was a Cub Scout Beaver Leader.

During Martin’s 32 year career with BC Tel (Telus) he met the love of his life, Maureen. Together they forged ahead on new adventures, renovating historic buildings, homes and commercial properties; and starting a sportswear manufacturing company in addition to his established screen-printing business. After many years of travel, Martin ventured into the hospitality business by not only purchasing a motel, but elevating it within a short year, winning the top hospitality excellence awards for six consecutive years before he & Maureen retired in 2019.

Martin embodied a life of integrity, devotion, generosity, dedication, love, compassion, and hope.  He will forever be remembered for making a positive impact on others. Martin also had a passion for history, reading, travelling, live music, and singing; he woke up each day excited for the day to begin.  He is fondly remembered for his spontaneity, and bursting out in song, whether they be old classics, or songs where he just made up words on the spot.

Most of all, Martin loved to make people laugh; few could resist his sense of humour, the mischievous twinkle in his eye or the boyish grin he gave so freely. Even in the most challenging times of his health, Martin was always considerate of others, quick to inquire about others’ well-being and celebrating their good fortunes.

Martin, you are once again reunited with your mom, dad, brother and sister. We are so blessed to have had a life with you in it, and will carry you with us, cherishing the many memories created together.

In closing, this quote from Anna Taylor, an Australian author, describes this amazing man. “Some people arrive and make such a beautiful impact on your life, you can barely remember what life was like without them.”

A celebration of Martin’s life will be held on Sunday, July 9th from 1:00-4:00pm at the Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, 3515 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill, BC.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choosing.