Obituaries

MARTIN PATRICK KASHTY

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Martin.

Martin is survived by his partner of 28 years Ron Hajes, and his brothers, Myron and Michael (Ann). Also surviving are his father Nick, nieces Alarice Arianna and Meagan and nephew Nicholas, along with many friends – you know who you are.

Martin was born on July 29, 1961, the youngest of three brothers. He grew up in Winnipeg’s North End and lived most of his adult years in Wolseley, with his partner Ron.

Martin taught in the 7 Oaks School Division for many years. He had an exceptional ability to take complex issues and problems and present them in a way that was both informative and entertaining. His unique sense of humor would capture not only student attention but all that knew him. Perhaps most importantly, Martin really cared. He cared about his students, his peers, his friends and his loved ones. And for this he was loved and respected.

Martin knew what should be important in life. It was not the accumulation of wealth and material things, but, instead, relationships and experiences. He saw beauty in so much: gardening, reading and even dandelions. One of Martin’s great joys was spending time at their cottage at Silver Harbour where he and Ron could leave the hustle of the city behind and spend mornings drinking coffee on the front deck, watching deer and other wildlife roam their yard.

Martin believed that life offered so many opportunities, but we had to make an effort to pursue and take advantage of them. He sought knowledge, not for any specific goal, but for its own sake and to widen his understanding and appreciation of the world around him (He was currently working on his PHD in Anthropology). Martin travelled extensively so that he could explore, and experience, the world and cultures outside of Canada. While working as a teacher, he would often take year long sabbaticals to teach in foreign countries. Over the years Martin visited and lived in Thailand, The Czech Republic, Bahrain, Greece, Croatia, and Portugal, where he and Ron began wintering 3 years ago.

Martin’s life was far too short, but it was a life well lived. Perhaps Martin’s approach to life is best captured in his own words, in a letter to his niece, Meagan.

To the infinite moments in life:
• To tribulation and to joy;
• To struggle and to accomplishments;
• To discovery and understanding;

for every experience broadens our horizons.

Thank you, Martin, for sharing your life and love with all of us in your family and family of friends. Sleep well.