Martin Oordt, loving husband of Mary Oordt, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 8, 2011, in Lethbridge, Alberta after a brief illness. Martin is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Marya, her husband, Jon Helm, and by his granddaughter, Amalie.

He is survived by his siblings Gerben Oordt, Gerrie (Jim) Raymond, Magdalene Kaemingk, Bernard Oordt, Esther (Lorne) Dance along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Hebrina, siblings Hilmer (Sarah), Magdalene and Robert Oordt.. Although living a distance apart, Marty felt a close connection to his extended family.

Marty joined the founding faculty at the University of Lethbridge in 1967 after studying English Literature at Calvin College and the University of Kentucky. He taught Renaissance Literature and Creative Writing. In 1996, he received the U of L Medal for Distinguished Teaching. One of his great pleasures was writing poetry and collaborating with other artists. Throughout his life, he mentored many poets and writers.

Upon retirement in 1997, Marty co-owned and published Lethbridge living Magazine for ten years with a goal of enhancing the identity of Southern Alberta. He was the President of the U of L Retired Faculty Association and served as President of the Probus Club. He volunteered as a fundraiser for the Galt Museum, Lethbridge Symphony Association and Empress Theatre.

A Celebration of Life will be held April 30, 2011 at the Galt Museum from
6:30-9:00 pm with tributes at 7:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Martin Oordt Scholarship at the U of L, or to the Lethbridge Symphony Association or to the Empress Theatre Society.