June 26, 1953 – March 3, 2010
Edgar Richert Martens was born in Central Butte on June 26, 1953, to Jake and Helen Martens of Elbow, Sask. Living on the farm east of Elbow gave him opportunity to be involved with the cattle, horses, and field work at a very early age. Edgar started farming with his Dad at age 18.
Edgar married Louise Mielke on October 26, 1974 and they moved to the family farm two miles east of Elbow shortly after. Edgar and Louise continued to farm and raise their sons, Jason and Nathan.
Edgar really enjoyed animals, riding horses in his youth, caring for the farm cattle, and bringing the dogs into the house for treats of cookies and ice cream. He also had a strong work ethic and felt it very important to pass that desire on to his sons, starting by taking them to the field while they were still very young. Edgar also thought it was very important for the boys to be self-sufficient and spent many days teaching them how to butcher and process meat. Edgar was very proud when his sons decided they wanted to farm and he took great pleasure in working the fields alongside them, continuing the farming tradition from his father.
Edgar enjoyed taking the family to Saskatchewan tourist attractions, especially ones about history, and along on lots of visits to family and friends. It was important to him that his children get to know their family roots. He also made a point of taking time to go for early coffee every possible morning to see his friends, catch up on the news, and share in the latest joke. Edgar found history and genealogy very interesting and spent many hours reading and researching family history. As the boys took more responsibility on the farm over the last several years, he and Louise were fortunate to travel to B.C. to get to know distant extended family.
In spite of being diagnosed with and treated for skin cancer five years ago, Edgar continued to work in the fields as much as he was able. While undergoing re-treatment in the spring of 2009, Edgar still tried to work as much as he could and was a vital help during seeding and harvest. Edgar wanted to travel back to B.C. during this winter, but his health did not allow it.
Edgar passed away in the Outlook and District Health Centre on March 3, 2010. He is survived by his loving wife, Louise Martens; his sons, Jason (Jen) Martens and Nathan (Jennifer) Martens, all of Elbow; his mother, Helen Martens of Saskatoon; his brother, Ronald Martens of Elbow; and nephew, Cal (Trina) Martens and their children, Kathrine and Jacob of Moose Jaw; uncles, Peter Martens and Henry (Agnes) Martens of Elbow; and numerous cousins and in-laws.
He was predeceased by his father, Jake Martens; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and in-laws, Fred G. and Mary Mielke.
Funeral service was held Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Elbow, Sask. with Pastor Mike Housek officiating. Margaret Langager was the organist. Interment was held in Bethel Lutheran Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Melvin Pederson, Lyle Knutson, Dwayne Richman, Bill Boyle, Del Bergman and Dale Hundeby. Ushers were Victor Bergman and Bert Bramble. Maureen Ector and Greg and Barb Martens took care of the guest register. The hymn was “I Will Sing Of My Redeemer” and special music was “Waiting On The Far Side Banks Of Jordan” by the Carter Family (taped).
Arrangements in care of Outlook Funeral Chapel.