Eric Albin Martyn passed away peacefully on March 18th, at the age of 44.

Eric’s big heart, thoughtfulness and playful spirit will be sorely missed by his many friends and family. He was happiest surrounded by the people he loved, immersed in the beauty of nature, and creating music and incredible food.

He lived a life filled with adventure and wonder, travelling to Europe on many occasions, including to Italy to learn the art of Italian cuisine, and to Austria and beyond, immersing himself in different cultures, collecting photos, and connecting with family along the way.

Eric was a devoted friend to many, with friendships stretching back to his kindergarten days in Toronto’s St. Lawrence neighbourhood. These lasting friendships are a testament to his loyalty, kindness, and selfless eagerness to help those he cared for.

His culinary training at George Brown College led him to many successful years working in prestigious Toronto restaurants, and he later went on to a career in landscaping and construction, making new friends at every stop and honing his skills for creating things with his hands.

A man of many passions, Eric achieved a black belt in karate, ran the Chicago marathon, was an experienced sailor, and had a talent for creative writing and music. Some of his most cherished times were spent kicking back at the family island on Georgian Bay, fishing in a canoe, swimming and sailing the days away.

Eric was great with kids. He brought smiles and laughter to all the children he loved to spend time with. His childlike silliness, playfulness and affection was enthusiastically absorbed by his nephew Charlie, his goddaughter Lily, and many others, like Serafina, Jasper, Leif, Jolene, Buck, Mila and Yara.

Eric is survived by his mother, Maria Martyn, his father Peter Martyn, his sister J.J. Jacqueline Joy Martyn, nephew Charlie Woodgate, brother-in-law Mike Woodgate, aunts, uncles and cousins – all who will forever cherish his memory.

Eric joins his godmother Ada Supancic, grandparents Anka Magic, Otto Joseph Buchner, Edith Marjorie Martyn and Howe Harold Martyn, and finally reunites with his beloved childhood dog, Soaker. May the many cousins, relatives and friends who have passed before him find each other in whatever lays beyond.

Our family thanks all who have reached out with their support over the last little while.

To keep Eric’s legacy alive, we invite you to send your stories, memories and photos

by email to: somuchloveforeric@gmail.com. Please include your name in the subject line.

A gathering to honour and celebrate Eric’s life will be announced in the coming months and will be held in the summer, his favourite time of year.