By Chris Strikes
The last day of January 2019 was a bitterly, bitterly cold day across North American and in particular, Toronto. As I was out for a walk to run some errands, at 5:31 PM I received a phone call from Eric Sim, my AD (Assistant Director). It was the type of phone call that no one ever wants to receive. Eric had informed me of the passing of our friend Gregory Martin.
This news was particularly rough to hear. It was so sudden. I didn’t want to believe it. I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t process it.
On January 23rd 2019, Greg, as he was known by, had just worked with me on a the latest Callowgrove Entertainment production, a music video for Dexta Daps’ new single “No Underwear”. Greg was one of our Production Assistants. This production was his re-entry into the filmmaking world and working on set, which he had loved so much and was eager to get back into the game.
On that shoot day, Greg brought the right attitude, a hardworking and productive attitude. But more important, he brought laughs, smiles and so much positivity to the set. During some down time, we had conversations about how excited he was about life, and journeying down a new path of positive and healthy lifestyle. I felt so much happiness and joy for him.
Two days after the shoot, Eric and Greg had come over to my apartment to wrap up typical business after a shoot day. Both Eric and Greg expressed how much they wanted to get back to working regularly on set, a world they were very familiar with but for their own personal reasons had drifted away from. I said I’d definitely let them know when the next production would be. Eric had to keep his day moving so I said my goodbyes to both. No one can ever know the last time they will see a person, and as Greg left through my door, I could’ve never imagined that would be the last time I saw him. The last time I saw a friend of 10 years.
So many people love Greg and he will though he will be sorely missed, he will always be remembered and carried in the hearts of his family and friends.
May your spirit rest well, and may you be at peace Gregory Martin. Until we meet again…