Elmer W. Martens, age 101 of Shawano, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, January 6, 2024, at Oak Haven Assisted Living in Shawano where he had been a resident for the past year. Elmer was born June 11, 1922, in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin, a son of the late Herman and Ada (Kirchman) Martens. He moved to Shawano as a child, graduating from Shawano High School with the Class of 1940. Following high school, Elmer was employed by the City of Shawano.  On November 8, 1947, Elmer was united in marriage to the former Ruth Bernhagen at Zion Lutheran Church in Embarrass. He then went to work for the Shawano County Highway  Department for 37 years, retiring in 1978. Ruth preceded him in death on November 23, 2012.  Elmer was a member of St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano where he served on the Board of Elders and the Finance  Committee. He was also active with the city government, serving as an alderman for 13 years. Elmer is a past member of the Shawano Lions Club and the Musicians Union. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, and riding his motorcycle. Prior to Ruth’s death, the couple enjoyed spending winters in Texas.

Survivors include his sister-in-law, Karen Martens of Appleton; two nieces, Patti (Bob) Francis of Shawano, and Kelly (Russ) Miller of Neenah; two nephews, Douglas (Nicole) Martens of Milwaukee, and Scott (Kim) Martens of New London; and numerous great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Martens; his sister, Marilyn (Raymond) Zabel; and his stepmother, Ida (Gehm) Martens.

A memorial service for Elmer will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 11:30 am at Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano. Vicar David Kaiser will officiate. Inurnment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano.  Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 10:30 am.

Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc. is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com. “The family wishes to thank the staff at Oak Haven and Compassus Hospice for
their compassion and care Elmer received.”