Mass of Christian Burial for David Maertens, 90, of Marshall, formerly of Ghent, will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2020, at St. Eloi Catholic Church in Ghent. A walk through visitation will be Wednesday, October 14, 2020, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Thursday from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the church. Masks are required in all indoor areas and social distancing guidelines will be followed at all times. Interment with military honors will follow the service at St. Eloi Catholic Cemetery.
David was born on October 18, 1929, in Ghent, one of eight children born to Hero and Mary (Buysse) Maertens. He attended grade school in Ghent, two years at Crosier in Onamia and graduated from Marshall High School. David served as a Medic in the U.S. Army during World War II, his last year was in Japan. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Ghent. On November 24, 1953, he was united in marriage to Lorraine Van Keulen. The couple farmed and raised their family in Ghent. David also worked as an assessor for local townships for 45 years. After their retirement from farming, the couple moved to Ghent and most recently have been living in Marshall. David enjoyed fishing and playing cards. He had a great sense of humor with a quick wit. He enjoyed music and sang in the St. Eloi Choir for 66 years.
David died on Thursday, October 8, 2020, at the Prairie Home Hospice McLaughlin House in Marshall. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine, of Marshall, children Dan (and Deb) Maertens of Dalton, Doug (and Pat) Maertens of Ghent, Jane (and David) Muir of St. Augustine, FL, grandchildren Danielle, Dustin, Adam, Anne, Wendy, Amy, Billy, David, Michael, Brandi, Krystle and Matt, 23 great-grandchildren, sister Doris Peterson of Renville and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Bruce and six siblings.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Prairie Home Hospice, St. Eloi Catholic Church, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
