Tribute

 On Thursday, December 14, 2023, Martin Edmund Beingessner passed away in Invermere at the age of 91 years.

Martin was born at home in Lestock Saskatchewan on May 2, 1932 where his father helped deliver him. Long before he held a pencil, he wielded a shovel and soon learned the value of hard work that was necessary to help his family sustain life on the farm.

School started for Martin when he was 8 years old and he had to be strong and independent enough to endure the 8 mile round trip on foot.

From an early age Papa Martin had a passion for art, sketching birds, enjoying nature, and he found a lifelong love for music. In his younger years, he played guitar and sang for many dances and parties and had a memory like an encyclopedia. The songs in his catalogue were nearly endless. This is something he shared with his wife and imparted to future generations.

Martin and Beverly met and were married in 1968 in Naicam, Saskatchewan and had four children within five years. The year 1973 brought a life-changing decision to move the family to Edgewater, BC.  This became their beloved home where Papa embraced the incredible outdoor Valley Life.  Martin was an avid gardener, hunter, fisherman and great storyteller.

Two days after arriving in Edgewater Martin began work at Brisco Sawmill for George Lautrup. George was his first and last employer since Papa returned to work in his senior years at Edgewater Hilltop Golf Course until his final retirement at age 81. His work ethic never left him.

Throughout his life, Martin was known as a friend who could be counted on and a man who loved every member of his family equally. His outlook on life was always positive…. Unless the fish weren’t biting or he was losing a card game! He lived his life by the Golden Rule. We will miss him and he will not be forgotten.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly, children, Lynnetta (Norm Labounty deceased), Myrna Hill (Don), Marty (Sandra) and Kelly (Charlene). He also leaves his 8 beloved grandchildren Jessica, Jamie, Damian, Elijah, Riley, Chris, Keven and Dayna and six great grandchildren, Alexis, Kassie, Landon, Zayden, Jackson and Payten.

He will be missed by his brother Roy and sisters, Patricia and Phyllis as well as many adoring, nephews, nieces, cousins and dear friends. Martin was predeceased by his son-in-law Norman LaBounty), parents Martin and Doretta Beingnesser and his brother Gary and sister Lois.

A private graveside service was held December 22, 2023. There will be a Celebration of Martin’s life on May 4, 2024 at the Edgewater Hall.