Owen Dale Martz's Obituary
Big Rapids - Owen D. Martz, 94, of Big Rapids passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital. He was born May 29, 1922, in St. Mary's, Idaho, the son of Ernest and Marie (Seward) Martz. During World War II, Owen served with the 88th Infantry Blue Devil Division in Italy, where he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart. Following his discharge, Owen returned to Big Rapids and married Ardith E. Stenberg in 1947, later setting Paris. Following his service, Owen had worked at Magana Lock in Big Rapids and later Ferris State University, retiring in 1986. In retirement, he enjoyed his hobbies with wife Ardith, antiquing, the antique tractor club, and restoring farm equipment. Owen was a long-time member of St. Peter's Church Big Rapids. Owen is survived by Ardith, his wife of 69 years; one sister Dolores (Raymond) Barrand of Cadillac; one brother James (Beverly) Martz of Reno, Nevada; plus, many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, who were loved as though they were his own children. Also surviving are dear friends Bob, Rosie, Lois and Richard. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Glen Martz; and one sister Marlene Durst. Funeral services for Owen will be at 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 6, 2017 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. Spring burial will be in Pine Plains Cemetery. Owen's family will greet friends at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids on Sunday, February 5th, from 3-6:00 p.m., and at the church after 10:00 a.m. on Monday.
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