Martyn Richard Bowler of Yarmouth, NS, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 23, 2016 at Yarmouth Regional Hospital, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born in England in 1944, Martyn began his career at the age of 17 with the Merchant Navy, and culminated in his becoming a Master Mariner, of which he was very proud.
He immigrated to Canada in 1972, working at various positions in Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick, then finally with the Federal Government. This led him to Yarmouth, where he has lived for over 28 years. After 50 years in the marine industry, Martyn retired in 2011 from Transport Canada (Yarmouth), as manager of Ship Safety. He particularly enjoyed his Australian trip to Tasmania when TC inspected Yarmouth's first CAT. Martyn loved to regale his friends with stories of his nautical travels, and documenting his life at sea. Through sea sickness, very demanding, dangerous work, he developed an excellent work ethic, thriving on unforgettable experiences, destinations and cultures. Martyn is survived by Sandi (nee Muise), his loving wife of 43 years, his daughter Robyn, her husband Kristen, his three granddaughters Kennedy, Charlotte and Avery, and his sister-in-law, Peggy. Remaining family in England include aunt, uncle and several cousins. His fellow cadet in the UK remains his friend to this day. Martyn had an amazing knowledge of history, a dry wit, love of rugby and Formula 1 racing. He was heartbroken when he could no longer ride his motorcycle. A sincere thank you to the hard-working, caring people of Yarmouth Regional, Martyn's Doctors Riley and Cottreau, and especially the 3rd and 4th floor staff. Thanks to the Home Care ladies, the Paramedics and the VON, for making Martyn's home life as easy and safe as possible. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of NB and NS (www.alsns.ca), Yarmouth Regional Hospital, or Sou'west Bikers Association (@souwestnovabikers). Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home and Crematorium, Yarmouth. There will be no visitation, a memorial service will be held Monday, October 31st, 2016 at 11 a.m. from Sweeny's Funeral Home Chapel. On-line condolences may be sent to: sweenysfh@eastlink.ca or you may sign the guestbook on-line at: www.sweenysfuneralhome.net
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