Eatonia couple designated as Senior Citizens of the Year

By Joan Janzen

Belva and Jim Martin from Eatonia have been designated as Senior Citizens of the Year for their numerous volunteer contributions. This industrious couple met all the criteria to be nominated. “The response has been overwhelming,” Belva said.

Their helping hands have had a positive and lasting impact in the community and its residents. Throughout their working years and continuing on after retirement, they have made volunteering a priority.

Belva and Jim Martin from Eatonia have been designated as Senior Citizens of the Year. Submitted

The list of areas in which they contributed is not only extensive, but covers a broad spectrum of categories. Whether it was individually or as a couple, they impacted the community’s school board, hall, arena, motel, RM, church, Brownies and Guides, figure skating executive, Donors Choice and helped transform the cemetery.

The cemetery project began during a very emotional time in their lives after they suddenly lost their 41-year-old daughter in 2017. “Jim’s mom passed away one month later. It was a huge grieving time for us. I was going to the cemetery often and thought we have to do something, so that’s how it started,” Belva explained.

Because there was much work to be done, their five-year plan has extended into its seventh year. “It was therapeutic and a way of giving back to the community who were so supportive at that time,” she said.

Small community cemeteries are often neglected, and Jim and Belva wanted to ensure the Eatonia Cemetery was well cared for. They wanted to make a lasting memorial for their loved ones and the loved ones of others. “It’s very dear to us,” she said. They spent countless hours working at the cemetery, looking for ideas and finding resources, but they made many new friendships along the way.

Belva said she stepped out of her comfort zone when she was asked to direct the centennial community choir. However, it became one of her most memorable and rewarding experiences.

In 2017, Belva became involved in Donors Choice. “It was in the community for years, and it came to a situation where it was going to fold,” she said. “I thought it was too important, so I stepped into that, and it has become very rewarding.”

Both Jim and Belva have been involved in the United Church for many years. Belva played the organ, and Jim was treasurer. Jim was a Councilor on the RM of Chesterfield for two terms and was one of the founders of the Co-operative, which was formed to build the new arena. He also chaired the local school board.

“We always seem to have fallen into leadership roles; I’m not sure why,” Belva said. “We’ve always had the attitude whatever you take on, you do to the best of your ability.” Which would help explain why they have continually fallen into leadership roles.

Jim and Belva will officially receive their award during Eatonia Heritage Park’s Open House on June 29th. Congratulations, and thank you for all you’ve done for your community.