Dozens gathered to bid farewell to a longtime Beaverton resident and veteran firefighter. 

Lorne Martin passed away on Dec. 23 at the age of 77. A celebration of his life was held Saturday (Jan. 13) at Beacan Presbyterian Church.

Martin started his firefighting career in 1963 with the Toronto Fire Service, retiring 37 years later as a captain with Markham Fire Emergency Service.

Firefighters from both those departments made the trip to pay their respects, saluting his family as they left the church.

In addition to his firefighting career, Martin served as a volunteer with the Beaverton Lions Club and Beacan Presbyterian Church.

Martin is survived by his wife of 55 years, Verna, his two daughters, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.