Martens, David (1917-2006)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2006 May 19 p. 27

Birth date: 1917 Nov 26

text of obituary:

DAVID "DAVE" MARTENS

David "Dave" Martens died Apr. 1 at age 88. He was born Nov. 26, 1917 to Frank and Anna Martens in Hague, Sask. He lived and attended school in Hague until 16. The family then moved to Capasin, homesteading in the bush. Dave became a Christian about this time. He branched out into bachelor life, working at a sawmill in B.C., as well as spending some time in a conscientious objector lumber camp during WW II. Dave married Frieda on Sept. 22, 1946 and the couple moved back to Capasin where they owned and operated a sawmill, and lived in a log cabin. In 1948, Dave began a farming career lasting more than 50 years. As a resourceful, self-taught welder, he attracted a lot of business and made much of his own farm equipment. After Frieda's death, Dave married Helen Johnston in 2000. Dave's health began to fail in late 2004, and a stroke necessitated a move to a care home. Predeceased by Frieda; son Robert and 1 son in infancy; 2 brothers; he is mourned by Helen; children Howard (Eva), Paul (Karen), Allen, Les (Laurie); 5 step-children; 2 grandchildren; great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren; step- great-grandchildren; 4 brothers. The funeral was Apr. 4 at Waldheim (Sask.) MB Church.