Obituary of Martin Joseph Durkin
Surrounded by the love of his family, Martin Joseph Durkin, age 67, passed away on March 6, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Martin was a man of quiet strength and resilience. He loved the outdoors, long drives through the countryside, and spending time in nature. Some of his happiest years were at the family’s country home in Bradford, where the pond, the gardens, and the presence of family and friends created many lasting memories.
An avid reader with a curious mind, Martin enjoyed good conversation and had a natural way of striking up friendly chats with strangers wherever he went. He worked hard to build a good life for his family and took great pride in his children, encouraging them to pursue the best that life had to offer.
He will be deeply missed by his children, Michelle and Michael; their mother, Linda Kushner; his daughter-in-law, Charlene; and his beloved granddaughter, Lexi. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Gavan Durkin (Cheryl); his sister, Oona Durkin-Thomas (Kelly); and his many nieces and nephews on the Durkin and Kushner sides of the family.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Christine Wild for her friendship, support, and the many laughs and joyful moments she and Martin shared in her garden.
In the end, what mattered most to Martin was simple: being surrounded by family, feeling the warmth of the sunshine, and knowing the people he loved were safe and cared for.
Visitation will be held at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, 30 Simcoe Road, Bradford on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 noon. Interment to follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Bradford.
Memorial donations in Martin’s memory may be made to Margaret Bahen Hospice in Newmarket, whose care and compassion meant so much to our family, or to the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake, whose doctors and nurses provided dedicated care throughout his illness and for whom he held the deepest respect and gratitude.