Joseph L. Marten

Joseph L. Marten. 81 of Litchfield, IL passed away peacefully on Friday, August 5, 2022 at 3:35 A.M. at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Care in Gillespie, IL.

Born September 8, 1940 in Litchfield, IL, a son of the late Francis J. Marten and late Anna Ruth (Bohler) Marten. 

Joe grew up in Raymond Illinois and graduated from Raymond High School in 1958.  He married Barbara Baker on July 25, 1964 and they recently celebrated 58 years of marriage.  He and Barb raised four children on their farm north of Litchfield.  Joe began his career in farming as a little boy, milking cows on his dad’s farm, before he was even big enough to carry the milk bucket.  He raised grain and livestock and loved everything related to farming.  He drove a school bus and was the State of Illinois school bus driving champion in 1975.  He later drove tour buses professionally, traveling throughout the United States, in addition to working his farm.

Joe was the Raymond FFA President and attained the honor of American Farmer.  He was a 4-H leader for his children and neighbors and founded the Country Cavaliers 4-H Club.  He served on the Litchfield School Board where he presided as president for two years.  He was a member of Holy Family Church and the Knights of Columbus.  He loved farming, tractor pulls, the New York Yankees and the Pittsburgh Steelers.  He was happiest on his farm, surrounded by his family, neighbors and friends.

 He leaves behind his devoted Wife Barbara, daughters Elaine (Jim) Pudlowski, Patty (David Husman) Hudson, Christopher (Stacey) and Matthew (fiancée Melanie Lawrence) Marten.  Brothers Anthony (Paulette)Marten , Raymond (Debbie) Marten, Carl (Marlene) Marten and sister Jane Hockett (Larry).  His sister Loretta Ludek (Mick) and brothers John (Judy) and Lee (Mary) Marten predeceased him.  He left behind 9 grandchildren and 4 great-children.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Litchfield, IL. Rev. Dan Willenborg will preside. Visitation will be held Friday, August 12, 2022 from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. at Litchfield Family Funeral Service in Litchfield, IL. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Knights of Columbus

Litchfield Family Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements. To view the online obituary, leave a condolence, sign the registry, or light a virtual candle, please visit litchfieldffs.com

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