What are the opening hours?

Monday 9am - 3pm Tuesday 9am - 3pm Wednesday 9am - 3pm Thursday 9am - 3pm Friday 9am - 3pm

https://www.stevensfuneralhomes.ca/

Stevens Funeral Homes, 50 Albert Street, Dryden, ON (2025)

03/23/2022

Allan William Martin
September 20, 1939 – February 28, 2022

On February 28, 2022, Allan Martin, former resident of Pickle Lake, Ontario peacefully passed away in Dryden, Ontario at the age of 82. He will lovingly be remembered by his wife of 64 years, Marjorie, his children; Ricky (Debbie), Debby (Rod), Shelby (Howard), his nine grandchildren; Teri-Lyn, Steven (Tennille), Leah (Mark), Bryan (Kyla), Alana, Jimmy (Amy), Billy (Alica), Chrystal (Mike), Kylan (Brittany) and seventeen great grandchildren. His sisters; Maxine, Marion, Barbara (Richard) and Grace, his brother Milton (Donna) Smith, along with many nieces, nephews and friends Allan was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Grace, son, Billy, brothers; Angus, Ronnie, Billy and his sister Elsie. Allan lived an extremely eventful life filled with excitement and adventure.

Allan was born on September 20, 1939 in Timmins, Ontario. Allan was always busy keeping up with his older brother, Angus in the hockey world. At the age of 16, Allan was drafted to the Chicago Black Hawks farm team the Kitchener/ Waterloo Dutchmen. He was an extremely talented player, always playing with the older kids to improve his skills. When faced with the choice of playing professional hockey (at that time did not pay well) or working in the mining industry to support his young family, he chose the most responsible option. Allan worked in many communities throughout Northwestern Ontario, working in mining, construction and the pulp and paper industry; always in a management position with at least 50+ staff.

Pickle Lake is the community that touched his heart the most. Allan made many lifelong friendships while living in the community. Allan's family was very important to him, and he would always find the time to enjoy his favorite pastimes with them, which included; hockey, curling, baseball, fishing, hunting and checking his trap lines. He would never miss a chance to go hunting every fall with the hopes of shooting a moose. Allan loved to travel; he traveled across Canada from Coast to Coast, including Newfoundland and to exotic destinations like Rio de Janeiro or try his luck with gambling in Las Vegas.

Allan ran a successful road contracting company with his family in Pickle Lake while operating a bulk fuel station. Allan sold Martin and sons and moved to Dryden to own and operate the Hideaway Motel for several years and then retired in Dryden with Marjorie. Allan continued to keep himself busy which was a challenge with his progressing diagnosis of Parkinson's disease despite this diagnosis; Allan continued to push himself and his body to pursue his love of the outdoors and adventure.

Allan spent the last years of his life living in Dryden, Ontario at Princess Court, by the nickname of “Old Blue Eyes” continuing to be a humble man that didn't expect to be pampered by the staff.
Allan will be remembered in his community as a man who had a huge heart, loved adventure, was courageous, lived with integrity and would always help someone in need with no question.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. If friends desire, donations can be made to Parkinson Canada, online (Parkinson.ca) or through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

03/18/2022

Cory Roulston
August 19, 1976 – March 15, 2022

It is with immense sadness and heartbreak that the family of Cory Roulston announce his passing after a courageous battle with cancer. Cory suddenly passed away Tuesday morning (March 15, 2022) with his wife and children by his side. He will be forever remembered and missed by his wife Katie, children, Tyson and Jake, parents Glen & Shirley Roulston, brother Scott & Fern Roulston, grandma Ella Ostman, in-laws Tony & Sandy Ryan, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a great number of friends.

Cory was born in Dryden and grew up loving the outdoors. He spent much of his time alongside his brother and parents, learning the many outdoor skills that he would later pass on to his own boys. His love and passion for hunting, fishing, snow machining, four-wheeling and camping started at a very early age.

Cory’s fun-loving and easy going nature made him loveable to everyone who met him. In high school he quickly became known as “Rockin’ Rolly” to his friends because of his love of LOUD music; once blowing the speakers out of his old Chevy while blaring the song, “Machine Gun”. Cory was always someone his friends could count on and he was always up for a good time. Cory was an elite athlete who especially loved his time playing football for the Dryden Highschool Eagles as a running back. Everyone knew when #34 was playing, it was time to push the ball down the field. Cory has spent so much time instilling this love of football into his boys. They have spent countless hours throwing the football together in the yard at home. Tyson and Jake have been following in their dad’s footsteps as Tyson now plays for the Dryden Eagles and Jake on the Falcon’s team.

Cory was a very young man when he started working for Kirouac Contracting and then transferred over to Ricci’s Trucking when they took over the business. He drove wood truck, operated the skidder and the chipper for many years and most recently was loading trucks. When he wasn’t working, he spent all of his time with his family and friends. In the summer months he would guide for Route Lake Lodge, help his parents start up camp for the season and shut it down for the winter months.

Cory and Katie met in 2001 when fate brought these soulmates together at the PI bar; Cory in his Sorel’s and Katie in her green rubber boots. They shared a passion for all the same things and quickly became inseparable. In their 16 years of marriage they have spent countless hours with family and friends building strong relationships and making memories together. Cory spent many weekends enjoying time with his loved ones in a variety of fishing tournaments. He loved fishing with his brother in the Red Lake Walleye Masters, Katie in the Dryden Walleye Masters and his boys in the AYA fishing tournaments. Cory was an incredibly skilled angler and hunter who, according to Katie, bought way too many fishing rods, fish finders and jigs.

Cory showed so much strength, love of life and determination as he battled cancer over these past 2 years and all he wanted was to get his life back. Sadly, this horrible disease has cut short his time here with all those that loved him. Their family had so many more plans for the future and feel a huge loss. A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at 1pm at the Dryden Legion. We all know, when it comes to Cory and Katie, they are a couple of friggin’ rednecks who don’t do formal wear, therefore, those who attend are invited to wear their favourite camo, hunter orange, Carhart or flannel apparel.
If friends desire, donations may be made to a trust fund for Tyson and Jake Roulston through the Stevens Funeral Homes. P.O. Box 412, Dryden, Ontario, P8N 2Z1.

03/18/2022

Darryl Herbert
March 22, 1953 – March 16, 2022

It is with great sadness that we mourn the unexpected passing of Darryl a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.
Darryl was born in Kenora on March 22nd 1953, the 3rd born to Bea and Earl Herbert. The family relocated to Dryden in 1961 where he finished his education. In his youth Darryl was a proud member of The Dryden Judo Club where he attained his black belt, the youngest in Ontario to do so. His work history began at Sheridan equipment then on to Gamble's Construction. Darryl then joined the Dryden Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter and eventually became full-time as Deputy Fire chief, then on to fire chief until his retirement in May 2012. He proudly served 32 years of service.
Not long after retirement Darryl's desire for keeping busy and passion for heavy equipment led him to explore part-time employment with Suntrac Contracting. Darryl loved his job and felt so honored to be a part of the Suntrac team.
His love for his family and friends was so admirable and apparent for all to see,
And every spare moment he had in the summers was spent at the yacht club, his "happy place", with Patty.
Darryl was predeceased by his parents Bea and Earl Herbert and his son Travis.
He is survived and will be missed forever by his wife Patty, daughter Shannon Herbert(Mark) Winnipeg, grandsons Will Realini (Dryden), and Brady Realini (Kaitie)Winnipeg, by his sister Gerry (Pat) Oliphant and family (Dryden), by his brother Larry (Candace) Herbert and family (Red Lake), sister in-law Sandy (Barry)Eliason and family (Minneapolis), brother in-law John (Jan) Hager and family (Red Lake), brother in-law Bob (Mary) and family (Calgary).
Celebration of Darryl's life will be held Tuesday March 22nd at the Agricultural Center at 1 p.m.
A private interment of ashes will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to DRHC equipment fund online or through Steven's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 412, Dryden Ontario P8N 2Z1.

03/08/2022

Judy Probizanski
November 3, 1942 – March 7, 2022

With all our love and our favourite memories, we have said our final good bye to Judy Probizanski on March 7, 2022.

Judy was born November 3, 1942 in the province of Alberta. She enjoyed returning there for visits with family as often as she could.

She is survived by her husband Ivan and her daughter Shelley (Jeff) and grandchildren Theo, Jessica and Ryan as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Judy had a creative side like no other. Whether sewing, crafting, knitting or crocheting, her work was always admired. She was also an avid gardener. Her flower gardens were like paintings with the brush of nature and Ivan kept building her canvases of all sizes.

Judy had a long and fulfilling career as a Registered Practical Nurse. She was equally adored by her colleagues and her residents. She had a real knack for connecting with people.
And for those that knew her really well, will know she had a lucky streak that she nurtured with BINGO! We hope her number comes in every game.

A deep and heartfelt thank you to Princess Court staff. The 3rd floor was her home and you all supported her and Ivan’s journey. You cared for her deeply and it was felt all the way to the end.

In lieu of flowers, if friends and family desire, donations can be made to The Alzheimer’s Society of Kenora/Rainy River District or Princess Court DECO online or through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

02/28/2022

Shirley Koroniak
July 8, 1954 – February 26, 2022

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Shirley Koroniak (nee Boyko), 67, of Waldhof, Ontario. Shirley died February 26, 2022 at the Dryden Regional Health Centre, with her family by her side.
Shirley was born to the late John and Anne Boyko, July 8, 1954, in Dryden, Ontario. She received her early education in Dryden and went on to have a varied career, most recently in computer technology retiring from the IT department at the Dryden Regional Health Centre in 2009.
Shirley is survived by her husband Alan; daughter Mandy (London, Ontario); brother Jim (Shannon, nieces Arin and Jenny); sister Jo-Anne (Stu, nephew Matt); brother-in-law Ron (nephews Chris, Greg and Mike) and families. Shirley was predeceased by her sister Judy in 2007.
Shirley was a skilled, creative woman who had an inspiring work ethic. She dedicated herself totally to any task she took on. Those tasks could be baking the most marvelous birthday cakes, sewing elaborate Halloween costumes, quilting or assembling a computer. It didn’t matter, she could do it.
She was the Best Mom Ever to Mandy, who she was exceedingly proud of. She adored her daughter, and Mandy once said, “If I gave my mom a popsicle, it would be the best popsicle mom ever had”.
After moving to Waldhof, Shirley took on volunteering with a passion. She was a member of the Waldhof Ladies’ Guild and was a proud Lion, serving as District Governor in 2020-2021. Her involvement with the Lions Club included being an educator and a founding member of the Lions Childhood Cancer Foundation.
Shirley was a positive, capable person. Her friends and community will surely feel her absence and her important contribution to those around her. A sign of a life well lived.
A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at a later date. If friends so desire, donations can be made to Tamarack House or the Vermillion Bay Lion’s Club through Stevens Funeral Home, P.O. Box 412 Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

02/19/2022

Jeannette May Denby
May 8, 1942 - February 11, 2022

We regretfully announce the unexpected passing of Jeannette May Denby on February 11, 2022.

Jeannette was married to Kenneth Denby and was the loving mother to the late Roger Borden, daughter Cindy Borden and son Gary Borden (Kahly Borden), step mother to Steve Denby (Cary Denby) and Chris Denby (Sherree Denby). She was the proud Baba of eleven grandchildren; Jill Borden, Mitch Borden, James Marion, Katelyn Murphy, Elizabeth Denby, Cameron Denby, Alex Denby, Jon Denby, Thea Denby, Jaiden Dahlke and Brandon Dahlke and her new great granddaughter Emma Borden. Jennette was the oldest of her three siblings Linda Knight, Marge Scullen (Dave Scullen) and David Kozak and aunt to Jason Knight and Jerad Knight.

Predeceased by her sons, baby Roger, Roger Borden (1988), her father Lambert Verhoeven and her mother Olga Kozak-Lofthouse.

Jeannette was Born May 8, 1942 in Foam Lake Saskatchewan.
After living in various places across Canada, Jeannette and her family made Dryden their home where she worked as a taxi driver for George’s Taxi and later a bus driver for Dryden Bus Lines.

Jeannette was a talented musician and had a passion for music. Whether it was playing with the family band, at the Ukrainian hall or an outdoor music festival, she made everyone smile once she picked up her accordion. She enjoyed gardening, painting and cooking and she was famous for her perogies, which she made from scratch.
She had a genuine heart, a warm smile and an infectious giggle. She was the foundation of her family and was so proud of their accomplishments.
Open your eyes, you will see my beauty. Listen closely, you can hear me whisper. Take a deep breath, you can smell my flowers. Touch the earth, you can hold my hand. Close your eyes, there I am. For I am with you everywhere.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

If friends desire, Donations may be made to the Dryden Recreation Extension and Modification (DREAM Project) through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z1 or https://forms.dryden.ca/Finance-Ecommerce/DREAM

02/17/2022

Jakob Rhyner
19 April 1930 - 15 February 2022

In loving memory of Jakob Rhyner, who passed away peacefully on 15 February 2022 at Princess Court in Dryden.

“Köbi” was born on 19 April 1930 in Elm, Glarus, Switzerland. He was raised on the family farm. In his teens, Jake apprenticed with a Master Carpenter, "carrying his tools for food and little pay."
In 1951, Köbi immigrated to Canada. He joined his older brother Esajas and a number of his countrymen. Together they travelled to Northwestern Ontario seeking work and adventure.
Köbi and his brother eventually settled in Waldhof Ontario, where a large group of Swiss/German families had settled before them. They quickly made friends and found work.
It was in Waldhof that Jake met and fell in love with Helen Bruetsch, marrying on 10 August 1956. In 1958 Köbi achieved a lifetime dream, together with Helen, purchasing and establishing a dairy farm of Holstein cows in Waldhof, Rhyner's Green Acres. Köbi was active in the operation and production on the farm well into his 80's when he was succeeded by his
sons. Köbi was an active member of the Ontario Milk Producers and with the Dryden Edelweiss Club. He loved to sing.

Köbi is survived by his children: Jack (Lucille), David (Huguette), Ron (Wanda), Susan Leutschaft (Ben), Darlene Benham (Dean) and Rita Bobay (Mike). Also remembering him are his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Köbi was predeceased by his parents, siblings and wife Helen in 2006. A service in memory of Köbi will be held at a later date for friends and family. Donations in memory of Köbi can be made to Princess Court DECO through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

02/08/2022

Donald George Bernier
May 6, 1940 – January 31, 2022

With our love and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Don Bernier who passed away on January 31, 2022 after a brief illness.
Don was born on May 6, 1940 in Rainy River, Ontario and spent many happy years there, always returning to visit with family and friends.
He is survived by his daughter, Shelley (Leonard) and son, Daniel; grandchildren Kyle (Karen), Kristen (Desmond) and Jordan, great grandchildren Mason and Boden, Benjamin, Cameron and Skylar, his sister Deany and numerous brothers and sister-in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews and by Ritch, whom he loved like a son.
Don was predeceased by his wife, Gisele in 2018, his parents George and Blanche, his sister Victoria and numerous brother and sisters-in laws.
His greatest joy involved any time he spent with his grandchildren at camp on Mills Lake. He never failed to tell of wonderful times spent there with Kyle, Kristen and Jordan and most recently with his great grandchildren as well. True to form, Grandma Gail spoiled them and Grandpa Don taught them the finer points of fishing.
Family and friends will gather at his beloved Mills Lake for a celebration of his life.
It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to support an elder and the family certainly experienced this in the last years and days of his life. A huge grateful thanks to everyone that so willingly participated in his care and well-being. He received exemplary care and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, if friends desire, donations can be made to Dryden Regional Health Centre – Palliative Care, online or through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario, P8N 2Z1

02/02/2022

Esther Henrietta Ernewein
April 22, 1922 – January 29, 2022

With our love and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Esther Ernewein who passed away on January 29, 2022 in her 100th year.
Esther was born April 22, 1922 on the family farm on Anton Road. She is survived by her daughter Heather (Don) and son Bill (Nicole); grandchildren Kailee, Steven (Mateo), Jonathan, Lisa (Rhiannon), Chantel (Kennedy), David (Heidi), Christopher and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Esther was predeceased by her husband Clair in 2017, brother Alwyn (Penny), sister Mildred (Ty), brothers-in-law Francis, George (Marguerite), Don (Nath). The family will gather for a celebration of life for Esther.
In lieu of flowers, if friends desire, donations can be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation, Princess Court DECO or Alzheimer’s Society of Kenora, online or through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

02/01/2022

Diane Evelyn Sinker
March 11, 1935 - January 29, 2022

It is with great sorrow that the family of Diane Evelyn Sinker announces her passing on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at the Dryden Regional Health Center after a courageous battle with cancer. Diane is survived by her children Deb Kamm - Osoyoos, BC, Denice Trembath (Tom) - Thunder Bay, one granddaughter Shelley Carrier (Jordan) of Birch Hills, SK, Great-grandchildren Jameson Carrier, Mason Carrier and Brynlee Carrier.
She was predeceased by her husband Del, daughter Heather in infancy, parents Frank & Evelyn Kerney and parent-in-laws George & Alice Sinker.
Diane was born in Dryden at the Red Cross Hospital on March 11, 1935. She attended elementary school in Ignace and then went on to St. Mary’s Academy for her high school years in Winnipeg. While teaching school in Red Lake Diane met her husband to be Del and it is there that they started their life together. Diane and Del moved to Dryden in 1959.
Diane worked at the St. Regis Bag Factory, Twin City Gas Company, Ontario Hydro and Hudson Bay Company. In retirement she and Del wintered in Florida for a few years. She then joined the Walmart team as a greeter which she thoroughly enjoyed.
She was a classy lady and Del always referred to her as his Queen and her family continued to refer to her as their Queen.
Diane called Saxon Gardens Home for the last 19 years, they became like family! We would like to thank Carolyn, Helen, Wilda, Else, Carol, Ruth, Manuel, Fatima, Lorraine and Brian for checking in on her and their friendships. As Diane’s health declined over the last few years it was really important to her to stay in her apartment. Thank you to her special friends Debbie and most recently Roxanne who made that possible by helping with errands, cleaning and whatever else needed to be done.
Anyone who knew Diane knew how much she loved to have her hair and nails just so! We will forever be grateful for the love Robert and Serena showed our Mum/Nana over the years-even making house calls near the end so she could have her pampering.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Bester and Nurse Practitioner Laura Hendren as our family navigated through this emotional time. You were both a ray of sunshine and we appreciated your listening ears, humor and compassion.
At Diane’s request there will be no service. Cremation has taken place and internment of ashes will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers or gifts donations may be made to the Palliative Care Program at the Dryden Regional Health Centre online at drhc.on.ca or through Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.
Heaven has gained another angel! Love to the moon and back Mum from your family.

02/01/2022

David Kent Sinclair
November 22, 1949 - January 25, 2022

David Kent Sinclair, predeceased by his parents Sheila and Andrew Sinclair, and survived by siblings Sharon Lathrop, Tom (Carole) Sinclair and Stephanie (Peter) Minardi, died on the 25th of January at the Dryden Region Hospital.
Kent had a degree in Agriculture from the University of Guelph, came to Dryden, Ontario on the staff of Confederation College and transitioned to become a successful contractor, creating and running Terra Deco Enterprises for most of his adult life in Dryden. He was an avid hockey player and ran the Last Chance Hockey tournament for many years. He touched many lives, always willing to help, always keen to make new friends.
Kent loved his cats (currently Jenny, Miss Black and Mac), reciting Sinclair history, cursing solar power and having family and friends at his favourite place in the world (other than Scotland): Red Top Island. He also loved to putter, never sitting still, until cocktail hour when he would spend hours (yes, hours) talking and reminiscing about his time at the Littlejohn farm as a child, traveling, Scotland, Lake Wabigoon, new innovations in farming and, most importantly, next projects and chores on Red Top Island.
He is survived by a long list of family: nieces Alexis and Victoria, nephews Kyle and Ryan, cousins Mary-Louise (Ronald) Richardson, Bruce (Joanne) Sinclair, and John (Anke) Sinclair - and their descendants, along with numerous, wonderful friends, all who have a story or ten about Kent. He will leave a big void in Dryden, which may in fact never be the same again.
The family wishes to thank all of Kent’s friends who have provided invaluable support especially over the past few months.
There will be a celebration of life once circumstances allow. The Second Chance Pet Shelter and the Humane Society were close to his heart.

02/01/2022

Herbert Heinz Bembeneck
October 18, 1939 - January 28, 2022

The Bembeneck family is saddened to announce the passing of Herbert Heinz Bembeneck, affectionately known to all as “Opa”, January 28, 2022. Herbert was born October 18, 1939 in
Germany, where he met and married the love of his life Roswitha. In 1968 they made the decision to move to Canada believing the promise of opportunity, freedom and space would be best for raising their young family. Opa soon had a reputation as not just an amazing brick layer but an artist with stone, brick and mortar and his creations will be standing as testament to his amazing ability for generations to come. When asked how he could maintain such hard, physical labour day after day his reply was often; "I don't work hard, I get to play in the mud all day. What boy doesn't love that?" While building a life and business Opa never lost sight of the reason he worked so hard; his family. Oma and Opa built a beautiful life centered around their family and never skipped on quality time camping, fishing, hunting, family events or holiday get togethers. Opa was also known as a bit of a jokester to his friends but his grandchildren held a special place in his heart when it came to sharing stories and jokes.

Opa was predeceased by his son Harald, April 4th, 2021 and is survived by his wife of 57 years Roswitha, sons Michael (Lee-Anne), Ralf (Janet) daughters Andrea (Bryan) and Kristina (Steven). Many grandchildren, great grandchildren and family in Germany.

In tears we saw you sinking,
We watched you fade away,
You suffered much in silence,
You fought so hard to stay.
You faced your tasks with courage,
Your spirit did not bend,
But still you kept on fighting,
Until the bitter end.
Ruhe in Frieden mein Schatz.

Opa will be missed immensely.
If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to DRHC Palliative Care online or through Stevens Funeral Homes, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.
There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will take place at a future date

01/26/2022

Keith White
July 11, 1931 - January 24, 2022

Keith White passed away peacefully at the Dryden Regional Health Centre surrounded by the love of his family. He will be missed and loved forever by his wife of 67 years, Joan White (nee Gibson). Keith will be remembered fondly by his children Linda (Barry) and Rod (Karen); his grandchildren Brooke and Al, Brie and Marc, Merlyn and Kelsey, Kait and Kevin, Maddie and Patrick, Makenna and Luke, Cam and Bella. He was a very proud “GG” to Zavery, Anson, Greyson, Isla, Adelyn, Brady, Russell, and Paige.
He is survived by his sisters Gwen McKay and Jimmie Peterson, and numerous nieces and nephews. Keith was predeceased by his parents Bill and Evelyn White, an infant son and Zable MacDonald, his great grandson.
A Celebration of Life and Interment will take place at a later date. If friends desire, donations may be made to St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Dryden through the Steven’s Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

01/24/2022

Martin Reid Penner
March 30, 1939 - January 20, 2022

In the early hours of Thursday, January 20, 2022, Martin passed away at the Dryden Regional Health Centre after suffering with the impacts of Parkinson’s Disease for several years.

Martin was born in Steinbach, Manitoba, to parents Emil and Margaret Penner – the second of five children. In the early 1950s, he moved to Northwestern Ontario with his family. He attended Quibell School and Dryden High School. After high school, he moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from Bethel Bible College. After graduating from college, Martin returned to Northwestern Ontario and began working at the Colenso Sawmill alongside his father, uncles and cousins.

During this time, Martin met Glenna Justice and in June of 1966, they were married. Together, they built a beautiful home north of Vermilion Bay, where they raised their family and built memories for 55 years.

After the sawmill closed, Martin began tapping into his creative nature and turned countless pieces of wood into beautiful works of art. He skillfully made everything from small trinket boxes to large pieces of furniture with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. He supplied stock for their gift shop, “The Woodshed”, in Vermilion Bay for many years.

In addition to woodworking, Martin’s artistic talents shone through his painting, carving, sketching, wood burning, stained glass,… We, his family, have many of his special creations and we will cherish them always.

When asked about their favourite memories of Grandpa, snowmachine or trike excursions topped the list for every one of his grandchildren. There were always exciting outdoor adventures to be had with Grandpa: snowshoeing, teepee building, trailblazing, winter picnics, … and the list goes on and on. Martin was a kind and gentle soul who will be dearly missed.

Martin is survived by his wife of 55 years, Glenna, his son, Graham (Tracy) Penner of Dryden and his daughter, Allison (Andrew) Halayko of Oakbank, MB. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brock (Alexzandria) Penner, Wade (Rachel) Penner, Emma (Jed) Benham, Martin Halayko and Liam Halayko. Martin was Great Grandpa to Seely Penner. Also surviving are his siblings: Barry (Helga) Penner, Iris (Mark d. 12/20/21) Kimberley and Kirby (Pat) Penner and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Martin was predeceased by his parents, Emil and Margaret Penner, his brother Alan and Alan’s wife Carol Penner, his brother-in-law Mark Kimberley, and his in-laws Walker and Lyla Justice.

We would like to thank the nursing staff, kitchen staff and housekeeping staff at the Dryden Regional Health Center for their kind and compassionate care during Martin’s final weeks. A private memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 26. If friends so desire, donations can be made to Parkinson Canada or a charity of your choice through the Stevens Funeral Home, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1

01/21/2022

Wilson Christiansen
October 5, 1931 - January 19, 2022

In loving memory of Wilson Christiansen, who passed away suddenly at the age of 90 on January 19, 2022.

Wilson was born on October 5, 1931 in Dryden Ontario. In his young days, he liked to play with friends outside and near the water. One of his first jobs was at Stan's bakery, as well as a paper route. When Wilson was 16, he went to work for the Great Lake Freighters until he was old enough to enlist in the navy.

Wilson joined the navy and travelled all over the world, stationed in various ports. He saw active duty in Korea, serving with the United Nations Commonwealth Forces. He was a lifetime member in the John J. Rockingham Memorial Unit. After his career in the military, Wilson returned to university. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lakehead University. He spent time working in probation and parole.

Wilson was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. He attended St. Joseph's Parish in Dryden and was active in his community by serving at masses and by volunteering to deliver food bank donations.

Wilson leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Lorraine Christiansen, his son John Christiansen of Campbell River British Columbia, step children Brad Petranik of Burlington Ontario, Wade Petranik and Wendy Kennedy of Dryden Ontario, as well as his sister Beverley, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and other relatives.

Last summer, Wilson rode the train at the age of 89 to celebrate his 90th birthday with his family in British Columbia. He spent many months planning the trip and anticipating the amazing time he would have, reunited with his family. He had a wonderful sense of humour and enjoyed daily games of scrabble and building jigsaw puzzles.

A Private family service will take place at a later date. If friends so desire, donations can be made to the DRHC online or through Stevens Funeral Homes, PO Box 412, Dryden, Ontario P8N 2Z1.

“Perhaps passing through the gates of death is like passing quietly through the gate in a pasture fence. On the other side, you keep walking, without the need to look back. No shock, no drama, just the lifting of a plank or two in a simple wooden gate in a clearing. Neither pain, nor floods of light, nor great voices, but just the silent crossing of a meadow.”
A Soldier of the Great War, Mark Helprin, author

Stevens Funeral Homes

03/23/2022

03/18/2022

03/18/2022

03/08/2022

02/28/2022

02/19/2022

02/17/2022

02/08/2022

02/02/2022

02/01/2022

02/01/2022

02/01/2022

01/26/2022

01/24/2022

01/21/2022

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Monday	9am - 3pm
Tuesday	9am - 3pm
Wednesday	9am - 3pm
Thursday	9am - 3pm
Friday	9am - 3pm