December 6, 1932 - October 20, 2019
Martin Walter Bailey passed away peacefully October 20, 2019 with family at his bedside. He was predeceased by wife Hazel (Nixon). Martin is survived by children Colin (Marnie) Bailey, Barb (Terry) Nerling, Keith Bailey and granddaughter Josey Nerling.
Martin was born December 6, 1932 in Lincolnshire, England. He served 3 yrs with the RAF as a ground radio mechanic in Gibraltar. After marrying Hazel they moved to Canada in 1961 where Martin taught English, Math and Science at the Vernon Prep School. He taught at several other Vernon schools before establishing himself at Clarence Fulton Secondary teaching English. Martin retired in 1994 loved and respected by co-workers and students alike. Martin enjoyed watching granddaughter Josey play hockey and soccer (or what North Americans claimed to be playing). Many hours were spent together playing cards, games and enjoying tea. Books and DVDs filled Martin's living room as he was a frequent flyer at the Vernon Library. He may not have cared for some of the material he read or watched but he was always willing to push his boundaries. Soccer on the telly and a good beer was time well spent for Martin. He also loved classical music and made many trips to the lower mainland to attend the opera. At the age of 80 he took a trip to Costa Rica and went zip lining and bungee jumping in the jungle.
Martin was one of a kind.Intelligent, quick witted, humorous, generous and kind in spirit. He was bold and curious and always a straight shooter. Right now Martin is most likely saying "bah" to all this fuss and bother. Sorry Martin but if anyone has earned the right to fuss and bother it is you.
Thank you Dad for everything you were, everything you are and everything you will be to us. We love and miss you so very much.
"I can hear you and I know why old records never die."
A small informal gathering of family and friends will take place this spring. A moment to say goodbye to a most awesome man.