Donald Martens

Donald Kenneth Martens passed away in his home on January 27th surrounded by his family. Born July 4, 1923 in Muskegon, he was the son of Frank and Alice (Anderson) Martens. Don graduated from Muskegon High and GMI (Kettering University) as a Manufacturing Engineer. He was an Ensign in the Navy and served as a torpedo bomber pilot in WWII. He married Donna Jean Collinge on September 3, 1946. Don was a member of SAE and SME serving as past president of the Jackson SAE. Don founded the SME chapter in Spencer, IA. He was one of 17 engineers honored worldwide by SME for his dedicated service. He was a member of Central United Methodist Church. SURVIVORS Surviving are his wife Donna; children, Leslie (Chris) Chopper, Albion, MI, Donnel (Cindy) Martens, Spirit Lake, IA, Merri Martens (Tim Nowakowski), Holland, MI; 7 grandchildren, Gregg, Merideth, Cole, Alicia, Kiel, Halie, and Emma. Also surviving are his sister Frances Venske of Plymouth, MI., and many inlaws, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Harold, and niece Marcia. SERVICE A Memorial service to celebrate his life will take place at a later date. MEMORIAL: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Central United Methodist Church and/or Harbor Hospice.