Paul Jerome Martin
On September 6, 2024, Dr. Jerome Martin passed away peacefully in Edmonton, Alberta amongst those who loved him.
Predeceased by the love of his life, Merle, in 2018, Jerome lived a life filled with photography, music, words. He possessed an incomparable and infectious love for life.
Born June, 1942 in Maple Creek Saskatchewan, Jerome is survived by his children Paul Martin (Carolyn Ives), Heidi LM Jacobs, (Dale), his grandchildren Emily Martin and Aidan Martin, his step-granddaughter Kaitlin Darr (Steve), his sisters Bonnie Ladner and Cathy Martin, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Paul and Rose Martin. He also leaves many wonderful friends whose friendships he deeply treasured.
A proud graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (BSc and MA) and the University of Alberta (PhD), Jerome was a photographer, publisher, pianist, writer, teacher, scholar, scientist, farmer, entrepreneur, and creative visionary. Music, art, and the written word were his lifeblood. He frequently spoke of his beloved family and his tremendous friends as 'the most wonderful things in my wonderful life.'
He spent a lifetime documenting and celebrating the beauty and importance of the Canadian Prairies in photography and in word. He spoke passionately and eloquently about the beauty of southwestern Saskatchewan until his final days. His bright smile, easy chuckle, and infectious love of life will be missed by all who knew him.
He found great joy playing jazz piano for events at the University of Alberta's Faculty Club and sharing stories over coffee with good friends at Spinelli's. In 2020, he was awarded a lifetime achievement award by the Alberta Book Publishers Association for his innovative work with Spotted Cow Press and his support of writing and publishing across Alberta. He was also a long-standing and active member of the Rotary Club of Edmonton West.
His family would like to thank all the many friends who offered love and support to Jerome and his family in recent months but especially Frank Peters, Paul McElhone, and Fran Trehearne. Much love and gratitude go to the superb staff on ward 5G2 at the University of Alberta hospital.
A celebration of life for both Jerome and Merle Martin will take place at a later date.
Until then, he would want to you to have a cup of coffee with a friend and share a good story.
The family is working with the University of Alberta to develop something to honour the vision and passions of Jerome and Merle. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Jerome Martin Memorial Fund at the University of Alberta. Go to uabgive.ca/tribute to make a gift online, or send donations payable to the “University of Alberta” to the Office of the Recording Secretary | 3-600, 10230 Jasper Ave NW | Edmonton AB T5J 4P6, noting your donation is in memory of Jerome Martin Memorial Fund. For any additional assistance, please email giving@ualberta.ca.
I’m terribly sorry for your loss.
Jerome was one of my heros and and think of him as a role model. He was intensely curious, and always eager to learn. His life was fascinating, but he was far more interested in hearing about your life. He was generous with his time and his intellect.
In his marriage to Merle, it was plainly obvious that she was both his best friend and his true love.
Jerome will be missed by everyone who knew him. The world would be an infinitely better place if there were more people like him.
Jerome was a valued colleague at the U of A for many years. Always pleasant, always hospitable, always helpful. My deepest condolences to Paul and Heidi and their families.
Losing Jerome is a huge blow
Always my closest cousin, and just a terrific guy
So accomplished!
He will be greatly missed
Jerome was a mentor, friend, and colleague. He was kind, generous, curious, talented, and a great storyteller. He will be widely missed. My sympathies to his family.