Philip Gabriel Martin

With sadness we announce that Philip Gabriel Martin passed away on September 30, 2026, at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 73 years old.

Philip is survived by his 2 daughters Faith Smoke and Samantha Smoke; grandchildren Ashlei Orton, twin boys Brenden and Braden Saltise, Trinity Smoke, Jerry Smoke, Isaiah Smoke, Ashton Smoke, Edwina Smoke-Kabestra, Viola Smoke-Kabestra, Jake Smoke-Kabestra, Lesa Smoke-Kabestra, Whitney Smoke-Kabestra, and Dani-Lyn Smoke; great grandchildren Addison Robb, Lily Robb, Jackson Laporte and 2 great-great-grandchildren on the way; along with numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Thelma Jean Martin; son Gabriel Philip Samuel Smoke; father Gabriel Roulette, mother Alvina (Swaine) Martin; brothers Clifford, Frederick, Alvin, Raymond, Louie, and Tony; sisters Marie, Louise, and Josephine.

Philip was born in Westbourne, Manitoba where he lived and went to school. He did go to Residential School for a short period of time in Sandy Bay and went back to Westbourne.

He met the love of his life Thelma, and moved to Dakota Plains Wahpeton Oyate, had three children, and years later got married.

Philip loved working on cars, he became a mechanic by watching his older brothers. He fixed vehicles in any kind of weather, showed his determination and love of anything mechanically. Philip enjoyed the company of his pets, two dogs, two budgie birds, and one cat. Sitting outside, he would always watch the road to see who’s coming and going. He was kind and loving, always willing to help those in need. As an avid hunter and storyteller, he loved to laugh and joke. Philip loved all of his family in Sandy Bay, his nieces and nephews, family and friends in Dakota Plains.

The family would like to thank Dakota Plains Health Center Staff, especially Rachel, for all the care and support.

A wake will take place on Monday, October 5, 2026 4:00pm at the Women’s Lodge, Dakota Plains First Nation, with Feast and Ceremony the following day on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 12:00 noon, also at the Women’s Lodge.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com