Paul Martin
1920 – 2016 – Inducted in 2023
Category of Political Life

Paul Martin was a tireless champion of the East Winnipeg neighbourhood where he was born and raised. He raised his family, lived, and worked in Transcona and dedicated his life to his neighbours and community.

Paul served in Canada’s military and was a veteran of the Second World War. He would go on to spend more than 40 years guest speaking at schools leading up to Remembrance Day. He took great pride in helping people remember those who made sacrifices so that Canadians could enjoy the life they have now.

Over the years, Paul took on the challenge of helping his neighbours build a vibrant Transcona. He served as a school trustee, councillor and finally mayor of Transcona. He also played a significant role in 1967 founding the Transcona Historical Museum, including serving as president of the museum board alongside a group of interested citizens from the community that he gathered to oversee its operations.

Paul served as a Deacon at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, as well as the chaplain at the Transcona Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 7. He was also an executive member for the Legion for 20 years.

Paul was dedicated to his community and many local community groups including as a volunteer chairperson for the public library, a volunteer at Park Manor Nursing Home as well as for the Winnipeg Police Services as a crime counselor. A little-known fact, Paul also helped develop the popular Crocus Hill toboggan slide using soil removed during the Transcona Street paving program that is still enjoyed today by families living in the area.

Paul received many awards for his volunteer efforts including from the Rotary International and the Royal Canadian Legion. He received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2006) as well as he was honoured for his help in liberating Europe, with France awarding him with the “Legion of Honour”, the country’s highest foreign medal (2015). Paul also has a street named after him and a 92-unit affordable housing unit for seniors and families called Sir Paul Martin Estates in Transcona. He won the title of the “Greatest Transconian” from the Transcona Historical Museum (2005).