Brian Andrew Martens

1975 - 2025

Brian Andrew Martens, 50, of Niota, Ill., passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2025, surrounded by his family at Memorial Hospital in Carthage, Ill.
Brian was born on Feb. 17, 1975, in Carthage. He was the son of Paul and Flo (Lubker) Martens. As a young man, Brian achieved the rank of Eagle Scout which is the highest rank in the BSA program. He graduated from Carthage High School in 1993. Brian then went on to earn an associate's degree from Southeastern Community College in Burlington, Iowa. On June 6, 1998, Brian was united in marriage to Betsy Brewer at the Denver Christian Church. They share four children together.
Brian spent most of his life farming and driving a truck. He enjoyed rooting for the Boston Celtics, the Cleveland Browns, and most of all the St. Louis Cardinals. Brian, also known as "Big Bird," loved spending time with his kids. Whether it was watching his kids in sports, reminiscing about old ball games, or spending time with his nieces and nephews, Brian was a dedicated and devoted father more than anything else. Between his sense of humor and lively spirit, there was never a dull moment.
Brian is survived by his wife, Betsy Martens of Niota; his children, Drew Martens, Jakeb (Lakinn Larson) Martens, Jaedann Martens, and Carson Martens; his mother, Flo Martens of Carthage; his siblings, Todd (Rachael) Martens of Dallas City, and Mike (Julie) Martens of Moline; as well as numerous other nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his father, Paul Martens, and his father-in-law, Jim Brewer.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2, at the Crossing Church in Keokuk, Iowa. A visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made out to an education fund for his children. Printy Funeral Home is handling arrangements.