Ana, Mum, Dad, Nicki, Family and Friends,
It is unthinkable that we are gathered here, and that I am standing in front of you to say goodbye to Martin my little brother...
I know life takes many twists and turns and can test us all, but let us erase the sorrow of what happened in that tragic accident and replace it with love, positivity and forever celebrate the life of Martin, who was a very special individual.
He was remarkable in so many ways. He lived his life to the fullest and touched so many people during his time here, as evident by so many of you here with us and the overwhelming number of condolences we have received from around the world.
I will always remember my brother Martin as a cheeky, happy guy, who had tons of charm and charisma, a smooth operator, with a big heart and a big smile.
As I pondered the right words to express my thoughts about my brother Martin, I remembered the valued and meaningful roles that Martin played throughout his life.
First and foremost I see him as the family man. He was a loving husband to Ana and a loving son. Looking back, he was happiest when surrounded by his family. His devotion to Ana and his family were the foundation of his actions - the anchor that shaped his life.
I see Martin - the friend. He was a good friend to so many! He could be counted on and depended on always. He was there with his creative, crazy ideas, his positive approach to life; he was your man; ready, steadfast, willing and good fun. As I look out at the faces in this beautiful church, I see many family members and friends and I know that you will miss the friendship that Martin brought into your lives. I'm sure you all will remember him in your own special way.
As I continue to turn the pages in Martin’s life, I see the serious side to Martin, a compassionate, dynamic, individual who was absolutely committed to his profession in the hotel industry, starting way back, when he studied hotel management at University with Ana. We were all so proud of him working his way up in the hotel business, working in challenging Middle Eastern countries, leading large teams and inspiring all. I know he has influenced everyone who has ever worked with him in a way that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. The same way he used to feel about Ana being such a great influence on his life, although he did remind her frequently, he taught her everything she knows...
I see Martin, the consummate professional. He had so much potential and there is no question that his ultimate goal of becoming GM was around the corner - he always had aspirations at being the best in the business. In fact, he said to me on many occasions when we were little, that when we grew up, he would be Hotel Manager of the Doha Sheraton and I would be a serving behind the counter at McDonalds.
I see my brother as an adventurer. He was a brave risk taker, who saw opportunity and made the most of it. He had no inhibitions and would rise to any challenge. He and Ana traveled the world; they shared such an interest in culture. He was such a free spirit and loved trying new things.
I see Martin, the dancer, He loved celebrating, he loved music! If I close my eyes I see Ana and he hand in hand dancing away to cool tunes, with him singing his head off with a beaming smile.
I see Martin as a man of passion and a dedicated supporter. He remained a keen sportsman who loved football, basketball, tennis, golf, Formula 1 racing... we spent countless hours, watching, playing and discussing sports with Dad.
I see him as the peoples’ man. More than anything Martin loved people. – He always made the time to make each and every person feel special. – He had this incredible presence that was infectious and unforgettable.
Everyone in this room has no doubt shared a conversation or heard one of his stories, where you would either be left speechless, shocked or in hysterical laughter. He was so animated and passionate in his story telling, you can hear now, his accent, his big burly laugh.
Martin I am so grateful for my time with you on this earth, and I know everyone in this room is grateful for the time they spent with you – Ana, we love you dearly, and while you are sad today, life will go on and we are here to support you - we all have wonderful memories we can cherish forever.
It seems rather strange and yet comforting that Mum always called him her little blonde angel and now he really is one.
I know his spirit will live on, forever in Ana, Mum, Dad and we will remember you through the many people still left behind, whose lives you touched so positively.
... You will still laugh and love - sing and dance - hug and kiss,
... You will be forever with us,
... You will be forever Ana’s husband,
... You will be forever a brother, a son, a nephew, a cousin, a friend.
You may not realise it, but you leave an amazing legacy behind, in the things that you did, and the way that you did them.
I am going to miss you Bro.
I promise you Martin, we will be missing you every day until the end of time.
