John Martenson

John R. Martenson

Born: March 16, 1928

Died: September 16, 2015

John Robert Martenson, age 87, of Shabbona, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 16, 2015 at home.

He began his life on the farm of Swan and Anna (Nelson) Martenson on March 16, 1928 in Princeton, IL. His education began in a one-room school house, and from there he attended and graduated from Princeton High School in June of 1945. He enrolled in Bradley University to begin his college education. At this point in his life it was difficult to pay for food, lodging, and school expenses. As a result, he joined the U.S. Army on September 19, 1946. He spent three years in Inchon, Korea. He attained the rank of a Sargent. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he continued his education at the University of Illinois and graduated with a B.S. in Agriculture. After graduation he started his career selling insurance for Country Companies in Livingston and Bureau Counties.

John became interested in seed while working for Valentine Seed Company in Bristol, IL. It was during this time he became acquainted with his future wife Mildred Seggebruch. They were married April 30th, 1955. After marrying Mildred, he taught Agriculture for three years in Paw Paw, IL. John left teaching when an opportunity in farming presented itself.

He enjoyed farming in Princeton for four years and then relocated in 1963 to Shabbona, IL. He farmed and loved raising swine. In 1978 John and Mildred formed a seed company known today as Martenson Turf Products.

John is survived by his wife, Mildred; a sister, Alice Will of Lombard; a son, Douglas Martenson of Dekalb; daughter, Karla Creed (Paul) of Waterman; and son, Jeffery Martenson (Debra) of Shabbona; and five grandchildren, Austin, Tyler, and Brandon Creed, and Dillon and Bailey Martenson.

John was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and three sisters.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 until 7:00 PM, Sunday afternoon and evening on Sunday, September 20th at the United Church of Christ in Shabbona. Funeral Services will be Monday, September 21st at 10:00 AM at the United Church of Christ with Pastor Jim Allen officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Shabbona. Following burial a lunch will be provided at the church.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship fund will be set up in his name for a graduating Indian Creek High School Senior, in care of Waterman State Bank, 248 W. Lincoln Hwy., Waterman, IL 60556

Arrangements were completed by Jacobson Funeral Home in Shabbona.