Johannes Hans" J. Marten

Johannes “Hans” Marten passed away January 6, 2016 at French Manor with his family and close friends by his side. Hans was born November 22, 1930 in Neugolz, Germany to Kurt and Anna Marten. He was the oldest of five children. Following WWII the family resettled in Loitz, East Germany. Hans came to the United States aboard the USS Harry Taylor in 1957. His trip was sponsored by a farmer in Emmitsburg, Maryland where he worked on a diary farm. Encouragement by his boyhood friends from Neugolz brought Hans to Plymouth, Michigan where he learned the construction trade. In 1961, he met his future wife (and fellow German native), Gertrud, at a German Dance in Windsor Ontario. The two were married in Plymouth in June of 1962 and later welcomed their only child, Anna, in 1964. Again encouraged by friends, Hans moved his family to Traverse City in 1968 where he honed his construction skills at the Fox Haus Hotel. Hans spent the rest of his career self-employed in the construction field. He was known for his quality craftsmanship and often people would wait on projects so they could get Hans to do the work. In 1978 Hans found his heaven on earth when the family moved to a small farm outside TC. He loved working with horses and raised 4 foals throughout the years. Hans’ biggest joy in life was the weekend horse-show, especially when he could share the experience with his daughter. Summers were spent either getting ready for a horse show or attending a show. Along with being in the winner’s circle numerous times, he won several sportsmanship awards throughout the years and always had an encouraging word for his competitors. Hans was preceded in death by his wife, Gertrud. He is survived by his daughter Anna, his three sisters and brother all of Germany, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. He will be missed by his grand dog, Maggie, who had the privilege of spending her days sitting at the foot of his chair making him smile and enjoying his company. During his later years, medical conditions required him to receive rehab treatments at both Munson Medical Center and Birchwood-Tendercare . The family is appreciative of the outstanding rehab staffs that always helped him to get back on his feet. The remarkable staff of Hospice of Michigan is likewise treasured for all they did during the last months to make him comfortable and peaceful. Finally, the family would like to thank the tremendous staff from French Manor that has become like family during the last 6 years. Friends are welcomed to visit with Hans’ family on Sunday January 10th from 3 to 5 pm at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City. Donations may be directed to Hospice of Michigan or a charity close to one’s heart. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Johannes Hans" J. Marten

November 22, 1930 - January 6, 2016