It is with deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of our loving husband, father and grandfather, Elmer Martens on December 8th, 2013. Elmer will be lovingly remembered by his wife Frieda, their children: Melissa and her children, Tie, Jarred, and Taylor; Randy (wife Marilyn), their children Chip (wife Kali), and Zach; Shirl (husband Brian Schroeder), their children Mason, Madison, Eric and Aidan; Shannon (husband Randy Unger), their child Tyson; and Daryl (wife Carol), their children Tia and Becca. He will also be mourned by his brothers: Jake, Ernie & Margaret and Neil & Erna; and his sisters Margaret Stefanyshyn and Helen & Larry Schlamb. He was predeceased by his son Russ, one brother, four sisters, four brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law. Elmer was born May 1, 1938 in the RM of DeSalaberry, Manitoba to George & Marie Martens. As a young boy, he would help with daily chores such as milking and feeding the cows, before and after walking the two miles to school through six feet of snow, and… well you know the story. At the tender age of 16, Elmer left farm life to start a long and rewarding career in construction, working alongside his brothers. Elmer quickly learned the trade and developed an ability to envision the project as a whole, then breaking it down into an orderly and efficient process. He soon found himself in charge of jobs and multi-tasking the many details of a project. Elmer married the love of his life, Frieda Kornelsen on June 29, 1963. They were happily married for just over 50 years and raised a family of five. They built a life together with God at the center. They served the church body as deacons and various other roles through the years. Elmer loved his family dearly and was quick to appreciate and praise each of them individually. He also loved his church family and spent many years serving in different capacities in the Mitchell Chortitzer Church. Elmer went on to work for Loewen Drywall and remained with them for the remainder of his career. He impacted many people’s lives through his integrity, strong work ethic, and his fearless acceptance of challenges thrown his way. Elmer leaves a tremendous legacy and will be fondly remembered by most for his kind-hearted and humorous attitude. We know dad has gone to heaven and this is only “See you later”! The funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Steinbach CMC, 479 Hanover St, Steinbach, Manitoba. Viewing at the church prior to the service. Interment to follow at Mitchell Gospel Church Cemetery, Mitchell, Manitoba. If friends so desire, donations in memory of Elmer may be made to “South East Helping Hands, 525 Main St; Steinbach, MB, R5G 0L5” or “Soups On, 20 Hwy 12 N, Steinbach, MB, R5G 1B7 ” available at the church.