Robert Martz

With a heavy heart, we announce Bob Martz's passing at age 68. He died on Nov. 21, 2024, with family by his side. Bob was predeceased by his father, Bernie and is survived by his mother, Rosemarie (nee Gren); wife, Colleen (nee Bergman); three children, Natalie (Evan) Gilmore, Andrew (Sabine), and Patrick (Karen); three sisters, Karen (Larry) Leroux, Patricia (Brad) Greer, and Brenda; grandchildren, Sophie, Isabelle, Stella, Axel, Gunnar, Svea, Tucker, and Maia; and many other close family and friends.

During their 44-year marriage, Bob and Colleen had many adventures together and made lasting friendships along the way. Colleen selflessly cared for Bob until his last breath while he faced a multi-year battle against a crippling disease called PSP. Bob was a dedicated family man whose greatest passion was bringing his family together in meaningful ways and creating lasting memories. Throughout his life, he facilitated countless trips and celebrations for his growing family and took great pleasure in watching them spend quality time together. As he said in his final months, "It has always been about the kids”.

Bob was born in Kenora, Ontario on December 21, 1955. Although he lived in various cities throughout his childhood and adult life, Kenora was his home to which he faithfully returned every summer. He loved fishing and boating on Lake of the Woods, visiting with friends, and getting up to trouble. Philanthropy was important to Bob, and he was a major supporter and contributor to Kenora General Hospital.

After earning a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Manitoba, Bob had a distinguished career of 35 years at PCL Construction. His time with the company started in Winnipeg and spanned seven cities and numerous roles throughout North America. He had an unwavering dedication to the company, and a passion for building that left a permanent mark on the skylines wherever he went. His proudest achievement was the lifelong friends he made at PCL. He was the real-life Bob the Builder!

As a sports fan, going to Canucks games or chasing his Senators around the country when they were on a playoff run gave Bob so much joy. Later in life, he developed a love for the game of golf. He tried to play every day, rain or shine, and had to be the first out on the course in the morning. He made many enduring friendships on the golf course. As Bob would say after dropping a 20-foot birdie, “It’s an easy game, fellas!”

Bob will be deeply missed especially by his beloved family.

A celebration of life will be held in Vancouver on December 20th from 2-4 pm at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Alternatively, a service will be held in Kenora during the summer of 2025. More details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Bob’s memory can be made to the PSP Society of Canada - pspsocietycanada.ca