Edward “Martin” Winder, 68, of Belt, MT, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. A Funeral Service will be held for Martin on Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at 1:00 PM in the Rose Room Chapel at Croxford Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Pleasant View Cemetery in Belt, MT.

Martin was born in Yorkshire, England on April 3, 1947 to Kenneth Winder and M. Irene Mann. Martin received his education in England, Germany and Singapore. He majored in 3-dimensional art at the College of Leeds in England, and his art was exhibited in Hayward Gallery in London and Headingley Gallery in Leeds. As well as being a practicing artist, Martin taught sculpture and pottery, and then contracted through the British High Commission to the Nigerian Government where he lectured in a teachers college. At the same time, Martin became involved in personal research into traditional Nigerian pottery. Martin returned to England and was appointed as an advisor to the American Military Schools in Europe, ultimately immigrating to the USA.

He married the love of his life, Barbara Browning, in 1977 in Belt, MT. This union raised two wonderful children. Once in the USA, his career path changed, and he spent the remainder of his working life as an insurance agent. He was very active in the Belt community, being a volunteer for the Rural Fire Department, always enjoying cooking sausages for the fundraiser cookout. He was a loyal member of the Belt Community Church, even drawing up the building plans for the church that stands today.

Martin was a charmer, a smart man who was always two steps ahead, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Besides his affinity for art, Martin got much enjoyment in sailing his boat “the Sloopy Hollow” on Canyon Ferry Lake as well as driving his self-built hover craft. His artistic side came alive building cribs for his grandchildren, as well as creating a game he patented called “Stopinos”. Fabricating his own tiles out of wood, and later having them made into plastic, the family spent many wonderful hours playing this game.

Martin’s family ties in England allowed him to visit frequently as well as travel through Europe and around the world. His wife Barbara has many amazing memories created during the five cruises they enjoyed together. He was a loving family man and he will be missed by many.

Survivors include his loving wife, Barbara; son, Jason Winder of Belt, MT; daughter, Kari (Chris) Shirley of East Helena, MT; brothers, Ian (Mary) of Georgia, Robert (Deborah) and Nigel (Tone) of England; seven grandchildren, Meaghan, Lauren, Rebecca, Emily, Abigail, Adam, and Noah.

Martin was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Diana.

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