Memories & Celebrations: Obituary

Thoralee Mae Martin

May 18, 1940 - June 26, 2023

Thoralee Mae Martin a loving partner, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully in Thunder Bay on June 26th, 2023. Lee was born to George & Virginia (Thorpe) Zimmerman on May 18, 1940, in Fort Frances, Ontario. Lee is predeceased by her parents and her brother Arthur and is survived by a sister.

She lived and was educated in Duluth, Minnesota from 1941-1960. Lee graduated from Duluth Central High School and Duluth School of Practical Nursing. She worked in hospitals in Duluth, Virginia, Ely, and International Falls, Minnesota, also in Fort Frances and Sioux Lookout, Ontario, retiring in 1999.

Lee was a long-time member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter #80, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Hospital Auxiliary, Material Girls Quilting Guild & Sioux Area Activity Centre. She enjoyed the outdoors, quilting, gardening, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Beloved partner of Bill Matthews. Loving mother of Michele (Jean), Roxanne (Ray), Wade (Darci) and Jannel (Paul). Cherished grandmother of Rob (children Ryder and Sylas), Sarah (children Axel, Jax and Kylie), Jean-Luc (Haley), Philippe (Kristen), Mackenzie (Daniel), Paige (Joseph), Claudia (Joshua) and Jillian (Michael).

Lee (Grama) was a loving and caring individual who was proud of all her children and grandchildren. She was a bright light to everyone around her. She will be forever missed.

In accordance with Lee’s wishes, there will be no funeral. A private celebration of her life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a charity of your choice.

In memory of Lee, raise a toast to a life well lived (with a not too salty margarita!) or enjoy a slice of blueberry pie.