July 24, 2020
Cornelius Martens, 89, of Richmond B.C. succumbed to cancer on July 24 at Richmond General Hospital.
Predeceased by his wife of 55 years Anna, and his half-sister Wanda, Cornelius is survived by siblings Harry and Helen, sons Henry (Heidi), Cornelius (Monika), Victor, daughters Anna (John Glover), Rita (Peter Ovenell), and many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and extended family. Corny, as most knew him, was a loving father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend to everyone he met. Cornelius was born in Chortitza, Ukraine in 1931, and moved to Paraguay with family where he met his soon to be wife, and started a family. After immigrating and settling in Vancouver, Canada, Cornelius and Anna completed their family, and became committed members of Sherbrooke Mennonite Church where Cornelius served as deacon and assistant pastor as well as volunteering. He worked many years in construction, and finished his career as head of maintenance at the German-Canadian Care home. His pastimes included reading, music, and traveling. Cornelius will be remembered for his strong faith, generosity, humour, and devotion to family and friends.
Special thanks to the nurses and doctors in the acute care ward at RGH for care and support in his final days.