The City of Prince George flag flies at half-mast outside City Hall in honour of former City Councillor Anne Martin

Prince George, BC – City residents of all ages and from all walks of life packed St. Michael and All Angels’ Anglican Church in Prince George yesterday afternoon for the funeral of former City Councillor and community builder, Anne Martin.

Martin passed away one week ago today, at the age of 80.  She is survived by her husband of 52-years, Bob, her children, and grandchildren. During yesterday’s Celebration of Life, she was remembered for her passion and dedication to making Prince George a better community for all its residents.

Eulogies were given by her sons, Peter and John Martin, her life-long friend, Horst Sander, and friend and protégé, Cheryl Livingstone-Leman.

Peter Martin credited his mother with fostering his love of the English language and clarity of thought.  "More importantly, she taught me to see beyond myself and to have empathy for others in far more difficult situations than my own."

Martin had a friendship and working relationship with Horst Sander that spanned more than 40-years, as the two were instrumental in pursuing provincial approval for the Child Development Centre and joined forces again in laying the groundwork for the University of Northern BC.  "Anne will be missed, we’ve heard that so many times in the last five or six days," Sander said.  "A fitting tribute we can pay to this woman – as individuals and as a community – is to participate in it."

"When I look out at all of you here today, I’m in awe, although not surprised, at the number and diversity of people here today," Cheryl Livingstone-Leman told those in attendance.  "This is a true testament to the range of people that Anne touched in her life – family, friends, community leaders, city staff and volunteers."

The City’s Recreation Coordinator pointed out that many in attendance had done things both for, and with, Martin, "Because, by doing things with Anne, you would for sure learn something and we would for sure be contributing to our community in a positive way."

"That was the spirit of Anne: giving to the community for the betterment of others, to truly serve."

Livingstone-Leman remembered Martin as a ‘big picture thinker’ who was not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty – a true community builder, whose ideas and endeavours "have changed the face of Prince George forever."

Among Martin’s many accomplishments mentioned during yesterday’s service, were her 20-years as Executive Director of the Child Development Centre, nine years as a City Councillor, her involvement in establishing the University of Northern BC, the David Douglas Botanical Garden Society, the Two Rivers Art Gallery, her efforts to raise awareness about the issues facing those with physical challenges, and advocacy for public access for those with mobility issues.

During her time as a councillor, she went to then-Mayor John Backhouse with the idea the city needed a Coat of Arms and a new flag.  She led the charge through a complicated and detailed process to realize that goal.  Livingstone-Leman said, "If you look at the motto across the bottom of the Coat of Arms, it reads: Shaping A Northern Destiny.  Now, if that does not describe Anne, I don’t know what does."

The new flag that Anne Martin worked so hard to secure in 1995, is now flying at half-mast outside City Hall in tribute. 

In his closing remarks, John Martin said his mother had the ability to look beyond obstacles and see what could be.  "She was a gifted person, a loving wife, and a great mom, who will be sorely missed."