It is with sadness in our hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Lena (Helena) Martens on April 27, 2014. Lena was born on Oct. 9, 1936 in Carrot River, Sask., one of 13 children.
She married Dave Martens Oct. 20, 1957 residing in Tisdale, Sask. until 1965 when they moved their family to Burns Lake.
After their five children were in school Lena worked outside the home; chamber maiding and janitorial - nick named Mrs. Clean by some.
Lena loved to play guitar, sing and dance, especially with Dave her partner of 57 years. She was a very giving person, always there to lend a hand and help those in need. She was an active member of the Legion Ladies Auxiliary and loved volunteering with the girls on Wednesdays at the thrift shop.
Lena thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, playing slow pitch, gardening and a good game of Bocchi. She had quite a competitive spirit especially at hockey games, be it her grandchildren’s hockey games or the NHL on T.V. Her support and voice were always heard.
Lena was battling health issues but after a stroke in 2003 her energetic and active life changed drastically. She struggled with her kidneys, complications of C.O.P.D. and Dementia.
Devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Left behind to grieve are her husband Dave; children Rose and John Ruffell, Laura Mihalyi, Rick Martens, Karen Olson and Sandy Waugh, Bev Jubinville. Grandchildren: Dustin and Tansy Ruffell, Jason Ruffell and Ginnie Disher, Ryan Ruffell and Kelsey Rolheiser, Brandon and Rosel Mihalyi, Travis Mihalyi and Madysen Mouw, Stacey Skibo, Jeremy Jubinville, Alysha Jubinville. Great grandchildren: Ryese Wall, Shelby Scheel, Natalie Scheel, Dylan Ruffell, Alexandra Mihalyi.
She will be dearly missed by us all.
The Martens family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff of the Lakes District Hospital for the incredible care and attention given to our mom, Lena. Your kindness, patience and understanding will never be forgotten.
Heartfelt thanks from Dave Martens and family.