Obituary of Martin Beales

Beales: Martin Luther  -

A lifelong resident of Highgate and Ridgetown, Martin Luther Beales passed away peacefully at Northland Pointe in Port Colborne on March 15, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born in Mersea Township, Martin was the son of the late Jabez and Ella Beales (née Brown).

He was the beloved husband of 53 years to Joyce Ann Beales (née Guyett), whose love and partnership were the foundation of a life well lived.

Martin will be dearly missed by his children, Susan & Dennis of Hanover, Ontario, and Ian & Natalie of Port Colborne, Ontario. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Justin, Ashlee, and Aidan, who brought him great joy.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Mary Alice, Alexander, and Violet.

Martin was known as an innovative and resourceful “fix-it” man, always ready to lend a hand and find a solution. A skilled tradesman, he worked as an auto body mechanic and served in the Canadian Air Force in aviation and electrical roles. Over the years, he was employed with Fram, Benedicts Allied, and Siemens, working at both the Chatham, ON and Tilbury, ON plants until his retirement in 2000.

Deeply rooted in his community, Martin dedicated many years as a Scout Leader, helping to guide and mentor young people. He also enjoyed local threshing festivals and was actively involved in the Bluewater Model Engineering Society, sharing his passion for history, craftsmanship, and community spirit.

A Visitation time for friends and family will happen Friday March 20th at McKinlay Funeral Home in Ridgetown 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Evening Visitation from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  A Funeral Service will take place on Saturday March 21st, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

Donations made in memory of Martin to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. 

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141