Harry Martens ensured every creature (and every human) felt respected in his dairy barn. His story is a testament to the power of compassion, understanding, and respect in shaping communities and building stronger relationships. Let us delve into the life of this extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark in the hearts of those who knew him.
The Life and Legacy of Harry Joseph Martens
Harry Joseph Martens, a farmer, Mennonite, and a volunteer, was born on July 30, 1942, in Osler, Sask. He passed away on January 9, 2025, in Saskatoon due to complications from esophageal cancer. Harry was cherished for his boundless curiosity and his innate ability to connect with all living beings, be it human or animal.
On the Farm and Beyond
Harry was born and raised on a farm just outside of Osler, Sask, the son of a dairy farmer. Known to be an experienced and skilled herdsman, he would begin his mornings at 5:30, milking cows and dispensing life lessons. Despite not holding a high-school diploma, Harry was a man deeply connected to his Mennonite faith, and his actions taught others the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
A Loving Husband and Father
Harry Martens married Eva Martens, from the Blumenthal village line of Martens. Their love story unfolded when Harry spotted Eva walking with her friend in one of the small Mennonite hamlets, and the couple ended up spending most of their lives together. They had three daughters, Sheila, Laura, and Anna.
A Mentor and Advocate
In the late 1990s, Harry took the unconventional step of hiring a 14-year-old young woman to help with milking cows. He believed in providing opportunities for everyone, with no discrimination. Besides, Harry made it a point to create a comfortable environment for all living creatures. When cats fought over a five-gallon pail full of fresh milk, Harry would assure them that there was plenty for all. In his barn, compassion and understanding were the order of the day.
Community Service and Recognition
Harry believed in the principles of harm-reduction and took Jesus’s teachings in the Gospel seriously. As a result, he dedicated years to visiting prisoners at the federal penitentiary in Prince Albert, Sask. His commitment wasn’t evangelical; instead, it was about listening and empathizing. In 2016, Harry and Eva were recognized for their volunteer efforts with the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal.
Final Years
As Harry’s health declined, his dairy was sold. However, this left him with more time to indulge in activities like watching Saskatoon Blades’ games, taking in plays at the Barn Playhouse, and driving along the South Saskatchewan River. Even when he could no longer drive, his daughter Anna ensured he was present in his usual pew at Osler Mennonite Church. Harry passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
A Man of Many Facets
Harry Martens was someone who defied expectations. It was easy to assume many things about him, but he had a knack for proving those assumptions wrong. His life was a testament to compassion, understanding, and respect, qualities that he cultivated in his dairy barn and beyond.
Jan Guenther Braun, a friend and mentee of Harry Martens, fondly remembers him as her church elder.
Harry Martens’s story is part of the Lives Lived series, which celebrates the everyday, extraordinary, unheralded lives of Canadians who have recently passed. To share the story of a family member or friend, reach out to lives@globeandmail.com.
