Melvin J. Martinson

Melvin J. “Marty” Martinson, 82, of Ellendale, ND died July 20, 2015 at Sanford Health, Aberdeen, SD. The funeral is 10:30am Saturday, July 25, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Ellendale with Pastor Tim Serson officiating. Visitation is 3-7pm Friday with a prayer service at 5:30pm all at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Visitation continues one hour prior to services at the church. Burial is at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Aberdeen. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel. Marty was born June 18, 1933 to Joe and Ida (Wiirre) Martinson in Ellendale. He was baptized and confirmed at the original State Line Apostolic Lutheran Church. He attended country schools before graduating from Ellendale High School in 1951. After graduation, Marty began farming with his father. He married Lola B. Elsen on June 20, 1954 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church near Hecla, SD. They made their home on the family farmstead. He raised grain and was actively raising cattle at the time of his death. Marty was truly a farmer. He served on council of Christ the King Lutheran Church, Ellendale, the Ellendale School Board for several years and he served on the Van Meter Township Board for over 50 years. Marty enjoyed going to games and activities for his kids and grandkids. Marty is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lola Martinson, Ellendale, ND; three children: Julie (Ralph) Sjostrand, Lancaster, MN, Renee (Edward) Walsh, Badger, MN, Russell (Rachael) Martinson, West Fargo, ND; four grandchildren: Jamie Whitlock, Rebecca (Joshua) Whitlock all of Lancaster, MN, Asher & Kellan Martinson of West Fargo, ND; one step-grandson: Adam Weshnevski; seven great grandchildren: Kiley, Kaleb, Gracie, Kira, Eyan, Lauryn and Camryn Whitlock all of Lancaster, MN; one sister: Betty (Homer) Daniels, Alba, TX and many nieces and nephews. Marty was preceded in death by his parents, and daughter-in-law, Kimberly Martinson.