elevated p8iIN September 27, 1932 – March 30, 2021

elevated p8iIN Martinho de São José (88) passed away on March 30th, 2021 peacefully in his home, with his family at his side.  Martin is survived by his devoted wife and soulmate of almost 60 years, Renate, and by his loving children Anita and David (Vee), and grand-children Natasha, Trevor, Ashley, Ryan and Joshua.  Martin was born in Portugal and set sail for Canada following his service in the army, docking at Pier 21 in Halifax on May 16th, 1955 on a lone journey that led to a wonderful and prosperous life here in Canada.  In 2005 the Canadian Government honoured Martin with a Certificate acknowledging his role in the “50th Anniversary of the Pioneers from Caranguejera.”  His beginnings were difficult, including being involved in a massive factory explosion in Port Colborne, Ontario, that burned 66% of his body.  Instead of being victimized, Martin endured the surgeries and rehabilitation, returned to school to obtain an RIA accounting designation, and eventually returned to work for the very same company: but this time in the office instead of the factory floor.  His role as an auditor for the company took him all over Canada.  Not satisfied with this achievement, Martin soon ventured off to start a hardware business with his brother Isidro on College Street, in Toronto.  For over 46 years, Martin and his brother built a strong presence in the College Street and Portuguese communities that they served.  Martin was a well liked and respected member of the College Street business community, serving as Treasurer of the” Little Italy” Business Improvement Area.  Martin’s strong business acumen, thoughtfulness, determination, and calm demeanour was the root of his success.  Martin’s humour and his thought-provoking perspective on history, politics, and the economy was infectious, making him an instant hit wherever he laid his feet: the quintessential “people person.”   This, along with his warm heart, and his jovial smiles, will be dearly missed.    Martin was predeceased by his siblings Manuel, Tony, Isidro and Maria, and survived by his siblings Bento, Herminia and Emilia.  It is with much regret that pandemic restrictions will make visitation and memorial celebrations very restricted.  A Celebration of Life will be organized sometime after the pandemic restrictions are lifted, to give Martin the send-off and remembrance that he deserves.

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Family and friends are invited to view the Funeral Mass on Tuesday April 6, 2021. Please click the link below:

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE SERVICE

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elevated p8iIN