Skip to content

Marstan ‘Marty’ Woollings

July 28, 2022

Peacefully, on his own terms, and in his own way, with the support and love of his family, Marstan began a new chapter in his journey on Thursday, July 28th, 2022, at the age of 76. Loving husband of Doris for 55 years. Loving father of Todd (Mica) and Travis (Lee Ann). Adoring Poppa of Morgan, Liam, Kiera, Mackenzie, Mason, Bryce, and furry friend, Rennie. Brother of Buster, Gene, Marilyn, Doug, and Carole. Dear friend of Dale Armstrong.

Marstan lived for his wife Doris, his boys, his grandchildren, his friendships, his books, his dogs, his students and colleagues, the Blue Jays, the Leafs, and cherished family time at the cottage. He made so many lives better through his adventures as a husband, father, teacher, principal, friend, colleague, and mentor. His curious and caring soul touched so many.

Marstan’s family send their deepest gratitude to his palliative care team with a special thank you to his nurse Natalie.

Visitations will take place at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Marstan may consider contributing to the Thames Valley Education Foundation – The Caring Fund at www.tvdsb.ca/tvef.

Leave a tribute for Marstan ‘Marty’ Woollings

Leave a tribute

  • Accepted file types: jpg, png, gif, Max. file size: 2 MB.

I am sorry to hear of Marty's passing. Those years at CRSS were good ones. Condolences Todd and to the rest of the Woollings family.

~ Rick Olley

Doris, Travis, Todd and families. Sorry for your loss. Marstan was a sweet man, always pleasant. He is with Hayward and Beth now havin a time and chattin' up a storm! Memories are to be cherished, keep them close to your heart. Test in Peace Papa Marstan 😇

~ Seana Clarke - Gander, NL

Todd and Mica I'm so sorry to hear of Marty's passing. In all of my interactions with Marty - two of his passions - his family and his students - were always were at the heart of who he was. I know he will be deeply missed by your family. My deepest condolences.

~ Sheila Powell

I am so sorry to hear of Marty's passing. I had the real pleasure of working with Marty over a number of years at the Thames Valley District School Board. He was of a rare breed always showing a 'can do' attitude. His advocacy for his students was undaunted. His support of staff was without compromise and his commitment to his family was truly amazing. I clearly remember starting each of our conversations with how our own family members were doing. Marty impacted so many lives, including mine, in such a wonderful and positive way and for that I will always be appreciative. To his family, please know that many, many people are thinking of you.

~ Bill Tucker

A donation has been made to Thames Valley Education Fund. Message from the donator: So very sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My prayers are with you and your family.

~ Susan Smith

I was sorry to hear of Marty’s passing. There were years at the cottage where he and I would chat during early morning dog walks. It is so difficult to lose a loved one. I’m glad he was able to do it “his way”. Condolences to all of you from your cottage neighbours.

~ Julie Sutherland

Mr. Woollings was my Gr. 12 English/Mass Media teacher at Beal SS. He made the course interesting, and so much fun. His humor was the best! Mr. Woollings encouraged me to continue my education after high school. Although that didn't seem a viable option for me at the time, it meant so much that he saw potential in me, and took the time to tell me so. I have never forgotten that.

~ Sheri

So sorry to hear your father passed away. My condolences to you and your family. Deepest regards.

~ Tracey Kirkland

A donation has been made to Thames Valley Education Foundation.

~ Angela Hackel

Dear Doris & Family~ When I learned the sad news of Marty's death, memories of our younger days at Beal came flooding back, how we worked together so closely & supported one another when we first set out on our teaching careers, as well as all the fun we used to have together socially all those years ago. No other English Department ever came close! I know how difficult it is to say goodbye to a well-beloved husband & father, having been been widowed for many years. Sending most sincere condolences to all of you & prayers for the repose of Marty's soul. May his memory be eternal. ~Anita

~ Anita Usaty Minov

Marty was my last principal at Clarke Road before my retirement in 2006. What a breath of fresh air he brought to the school after a particularly divisive time! I will always remember his friendship towards the music department and especially his personal support of our teaching staff. I greatly appreciate his helping to make the final memories of my teaching career so positive! A truly unique individual.

~ Jim Smythe

Doris, Todd, Travis and family, Our hearts are deeply saddened by your loss. Our deepest sympathies go out to all of you. Aunt Audrey and Dean

~ Audrey Nelson

Mr. Woollings will be sadly missed and well remembered by us all. Please accept our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

~ Gadzala Family and Friends

Faye and I offer our condolences to Doris, and the whole family on this sad occasion. We both worked with Marty, and valued his friendship and shared respect. Marty Woollings was not your average English teacher, and he most definitely was not your average Principal. Marty always wore a wry grin on his face, and spoke with an emphatic, clipped cadence that always put me in mind of Don Cherry on a roll during Coach's Corner. In 1990 Thames Valley promoted Marty to Principal, and unwittingly assigned him and me to Annandale School, which was chock full of characters, on staff and in the classrooms. It was to be Marty's home for five years of enthusiastic and effective leadership, peppered with trials and challenges, but loaded with hilarious moments, raucous laughter, and joyful memories. Marty, bless his soul, hated dry scripted meetings as much as we did, and would often give staff free rein to make effective use of our PD days, asking only that we all gather in the gym, an hour before the end of the day in costume, for a set of team building, volleyball fun. He loved us, he loved our kids, and he loved Annandale. Marty made a difference in his chosen profession, and that's the reason why all good teachers enter the roller coaster ride that is education. Rest in peace old friend. Jim & Faye Staples

~ Jim Staples

I rember mr woolingsfrombeal. I very sorry to hear the news of his passing. Hisroomwasonthe third floor.. all the best to the family. Mikedrabick..

~ Mike drabick

I am sorry to read of Marston’s passing! My late husband, Bob Large, taught in the English Dept. with “Marty” way back in the early days @ Beal. What a great department it was with a wonderful group of nurturing teachers! Hopefully, they will meet again in the great beyond! My condolences to Marty’s family during this sad time. Sandra Large

~ Sandra Large

Doris My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.

~ Jackie WREGGITT

Todd, please accept my condolences at your father's passing; he rests in Peace. May the God strengthen your entire family at this time.

~ Margaret Agbalizu

Doris We are sorry to hear of Marstan’s passing. Our condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. Paul and Gloria Haight

~ Paul and Gloria Haight

Marty was such a warm and vibrant fellow. I enjoyed our chats about the Jays, or politics, or education. He was a wonderful story teller and tough as nails. I am so sorry for this terrible loss.

~ Jeff and Naomi Gallant

I had the pleasure of working with Marty at Wheable and Beal. He was such a delight to be with. His gentle sense of humour coupled with his absolute devotion to his students made him an inspiration. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. We’ve lost one of the good ones. My condolences to Doris and the family. RIP, Marty.

~ Graham Brown

Please accept our condolences at this time.Losing a loved one is never easy but God must of needed him somewhere else in the universe to carry on his work.Never to be forgotten.Respectfully sent

~ John & Gudrun MacWilliams & family

I know there are no words that can ease your pain, just know that we will be thinking of the Woollings family during this difficult time. I have many fond memories of Marstan, including grade 13 English and hanging out on your front porch chatting. I'm glad that I was able to visit with your dad last summer and had hoped to do it again this summer. My condolences to Todd and his family.

~ Dan Reynolds

Many memories of Marstan's visits to Huntsville and especially our family gatherings at Pitman's Bay camp. There, we were able to catch up and get into "lively" discussions about educational philosophy, which we both enjoyed. Teaching was his passion and one that he excelled at. Our deepest sympathies go out to Doris and family.

~ Bev and Katie MacWilliams

I had Mr Woollings for grade 11 English back in the 70’s. I have so many wonderful memories of that class. Mr Woollings had a love and passion for books. He was an inspiration. He was also a deeply caring man. I will never forget his many kindnesses to me in my troubled teen years. I was lucky to have you for a teacher Mr Woollings. My condolences to his family and friends.

~ Britta Homm

My deepest condolences. Mr. Woolings was my vice-principal at Saunders and years later he was my colleague at Annandale (still my principal). He always had a warm smile and kind heart. He was, and will continue to be, a role model for myself as an educator - fair, understanding, kind yet firm in his morals and beliefs.

~ Lisa Boulianne

Hi Todd and families. We are deep sorry to hear of Marty's passig. I know Frank taught with him at South and had you as well at South. I pray the wonderful legacy e leaves behined will help heal your heart on your journey of loss. Sending loving well wishes to guide you and prayers to support you all Kindly Shannon-Lee Kelly and Frank Kliza

~ Shannon Lee Kelly and FrankKliza

Doris, Todd & Travis, my heart goes out to you at this very difficult time. Marstan was a wonderful man with a hidden sense of humour that came out when around those he loved. Please take peace in knowing he is comfortable in his new setting and he will forever be taking care of you. May he rest In Eternal Peace.

~ Hayley Clarke

I wish to convey my sincere sorrow in the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. There are no words that will comfort your loss but together the memories you each hold in your hearts will in time bring not only tears but smiles of a happy life.

~ Judy Young-Bilodeau

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Thames Valley Education Foundation

Notify family of your donation

Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.