Joel Martens

Joel Martens, 64, of Charlotte, Iowa, passed away Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, following a significant stroke.

Joel was born October 7, 1957, in DeWitt, Iowa to Lawrence and Jean (Goethals) Martens. He graduated from Central Community Schools in DeWitt in 1977. Joel was an avid wrestler and football player throughout his school years. He worked for River Valley Coop and ran Martens Garden of Eatin’ with his gal, Teresa.

Joel was an overcomer, having been diagnosed with epilepsy as a teenager, he never let it slow him down. A brain surgery in 1999 cured him of his epilepsy, allowing him to have a normal life. He was a member of Singles in Agriculture, and enjoyed country pattern dancing, as well as his classic country music album collection. His dream was to have his own farm, which he achieved in 2015. He and Teresa expanded that dream with gardens and a greenhouse as Martens Garden of Eatin’, selling their produce at the DeWitt Farmer’s Market.

He is survived by his gal, Teresa Martens; his parents, Lawrence and Jean of Camanche; siblings, Marianne (Tom) Wagemester of Clinton, Brian (Karla Taylor) Martens of Camanche, Chris Martens of Camanche and Brent (Sara) Martens of Goose Lake; several nieces and nephews; cousins; and 8 farm cats that adored him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, a niece, Heather Martens, and a brother, Randy Martens.

As in living, also in death, Joel was an incredibly giving person, and was a Gift of Life Organ Donor with the Iowa Donor Network. He was a longtime blood, plasma, and platelet donor with ImpactLife.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed and a photo tribute viewed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

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