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Borden and Fleming Suites of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre

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Submitted by justine on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 03:37:PM

Surrounded by family, Martha Watt died peacefully, on her own terms and with a Drambuie toast, on January 20, 2023 at the age of 71. 

Martha was the strongest woman, and exceptional until the end. It took a rare complication of CLL to end her life, one of the few times anything has succeeded in overtaking her. 

Martha's life was about defying expectations and pushing boundaries. A talented mathematician, she chose to become a computer scientist in the days when few women could see this path as an option, and was the only woman on her team in CSIS. In her retirement, she was the most generous and loving mother and grandmother imaginable. This extended to the broader community as she happily opened her home, and especially her pool, to all the neighbourhood families, and was always ready to share freshly baked treats and new toys. 

We will remember her indomitable spirit and extraordinary resilience from beneath one of the cozy crocheted blankets she so generously made for her loved ones, and every new baby her community welcomed. She also crocheted blankets to donate to charity auctions for her favourite local animal rescue. Her kindness and generosity were matched only by her math and puzzle-loving brain. Her siblings will always remember her as a rock of a big sister, always having their backs and offering loving support, through tough times and good.

Martha was predeceased by her loving husband Michael Gareau and is survived by her three children, Leah Jurkovic (David Clements), Lucas Jurkovic (Laura Blair), Rebecca Jurkovic (Jeffrey Ireson); her three siblings, Laura (Ken) , PaulaLynn, Graham (Denise); grandchildren Rebecca, Benjamin, Jack; and a loving extended family of both Watts and Gareaus. 

Join us at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue on Saturday, February 11, 2023 between 1-3pm to celebrate Martha. 

Please do NOT send flowers, but instead donate in her honour to her favourite dog rescue Sit With Me or to the incredible team that supported her at the Ottawa General Hospital Foundation.

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Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 06:56:PM

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Maureen Ireson

Martha was the heart of her treasured family., and a gift to all who knew her.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 09:04:PM

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Josey Kitson

Amazing woman and an amazing legacy of caring and love. Thinking of you during this difficult time.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 09:18:PM

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Lori Disotell

I will miss our conversations Martha. Rest in peace.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 10:06:PM

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Darryl

Sending condolences from The Caesars.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 10:14:PM

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Alice Johnson

Dear Rebecca and Jeff,
We feel your grief. Such a beautiful obituary. Martha was special indeed. May there be brighter days ahead as you revel in the memories of your Mom, a loving and accomplished woman. ❤️

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2023 - 10:28:PM

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Cathy Kennedy

A beautiful and rich life of strength and love.
Sending love and deepest condolences to you all. ??

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 01/24/2023 - 08:53:AM

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Patrice Kennedy

Such an inspiring life!! And a great loss to her family! Sending prayers and love to you all.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 01/24/2023 - 03:28:PM

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Pettipas Family

Rebecca, Jeff and family,
We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Sending you all so much love xo

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 01/25/2023 - 04:05:PM

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Dianne Symchych

Dear Leah, Lucas, Rebecca, I am so very sorry for the loss of your dear Mom. May you be comforted by your memories - I know she will be with you always.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 01/26/2023 - 08:30:AM

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Ivan sylvain

A great soul has passed. The world is less without her. Please accept my condolences

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