A proud representative of the First Nations, former Rigaud District 2 municipal councillor Archie Martin passed away this morning, Monday, January 27. After many years of service to the citizens of his adopted community, the septuagenarian suffered health problems that kept him away from municipal politics in recent months. 

On September 24, 2023, Peter Schiefke, Member of Parliament for Vaudreuil-Soulanges, presented him with the Prix d'action communautaire 2024 at a ceremony held at the Auberge des Gallants in Sainte-Marthe. The award recognized his unwavering commitment and dedication, as well as his vital role in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges community. Archie Joseph Martin received a medal for his promotion of First Nations culture and history. 

In a press release, the Ville de Rigaud noted that Mr. Martin had “left an indelible mark on the local and regional scene, both as a fervent defender of the environment and wildlife, and for his commitment and dedication to perpetuating the history, culture and traditions of the First Nations wherever the wind took him, leaving in his wake his legacy, the traces of his people and his identity”.

In 2024, the deceased was recognized as an Ambassador for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF).

“Many will mourn him and remember him for his generosity, his time and his commitment. In recognition of this larger-than-life individual, the Ville de Rigaud will fly its flag at half-mast and pay tribute to him at the next council meeting. The Town offers its most sincere condolences to his wife, children, family and friends,” adds the town. 

Born in Escuminac, New Brunswick, Mr. Martin was the son of Acadian Micmac parents who had 12 children. Arriving in Montreal in 1966, he worked as a special agent at Expo 67 and for the Dosco company, before being hired as a security agent at Nortel Networks in 1969, where he spent 32 years of his life.

Insatiable, he also worked as a police officer for the Town of Hudson and as a firefighter for the City of Rigaud, where he moved in 1971. Since 2013, he had been a municipal councillor, a position he recently had to relinquish due to his health. His passion for First Nations culture and traditions has led him to honor their memory and perpetuate their history for the past 17 years.

He and his wife, Pierrette Schofield, are the proud parents of three children, including a son and two daughters.

In love with his origins, he never hesitated to take part in major cultural events, such as the Seigneuriales de Vaudreuil-Dorion and the Festival des couleurs de Rigaud. Dressed in his traditional costumes, seated beside his tepee, he would take part in these events to inform young and old alike about the First Nations and their way of life. 

According to Mr. Martin's wishes, there will be no ceremony.