Herbert "Herb" Martel

Herbert Reuben Martel, 89, Medina, ND died peacefully Wednesday evening, May 1, 2013 at Eventide at Hi-Acres in Jamestown, ND.

Herbert Martel was born January 19, 1924, SW of Medina, ND, the son of Christ Martel and Elizabeth (Klein) Martel. He received his early education at the rural St. Paul Township School where he helped on the family farm and grew to manhood in the vicinity.

He entered the US Navy May 29, 1944 at Farragut, ID. He served in the South Pacific on the USS Appalachian AGC 1 and was honorably discharged May 8, 1946 at Minneapolis, MN with the rank of Seaman 1st Class. He returned back home to farm.

He and Elaine Dockter were married November 19, 1948 at Medina, ND. They say that he had to virtually steal his young bride away from her family, as she was the oldest daughter, and responsible for helping raise her younger siblings. They made their home SW of Medina and farmed for over 50 years. They enjoyed Music and dancing with much gusto over the years.

He was a member of the English Lutheran Church in Medina, also serving on the church council. He also served on the board of the Farmers Union grain elevator, and ardently supported the Medina American Legion. He was well known for his love for horses and he was an enthusiastic member of the Medina Saddle Club. Herbert was an artist in Farmer's clothing; a true gentleman, fair, principled and ethical to a fault. Although an imposing figure physically, he was gentle and kind; especially with his grandchildren, all of whom will miss him dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine, Medina, ND; 4 children, Daniel (Beverly) Martel, Christine, ND; Kathleen (Jay) Pepple, Fargo, ND; Elizabeth Allen, Charleston, SC; James (Lisa) Martel, Charlotte, NC; 8 grandchildren, Matthew; Mitchell; Ashley; Brooke; Jack; Jill; Abigail; Alex; 1 great grandchild, Wyatt; 3 sisters, Frieda Eissinger, Phoenix, AZ; Lurene Jackson, Minnetonka, MN; Arlene Kemp, Minneapolis, MN; 1 sister-in-law, Irene Martel, Fargo, ND, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 5 brothers, Rudolph; Reinhold; Marvin; Edward; Wilbert; 3 sisters, Lydia; Helen and Esther.

Funeral Service - 2:00 PM Tuesday May 7, 2013 at the English Lutheran Church in Medina, ND with Rev. Kirsten Frantsgod, officiating.

Interment - Medina Cemetery in Medina, ND (at a later date).

Visitation: 3:00 - 8:00 PM Monday @ the funeral home in Jamestown

Prayer service: 7:00 PM Monday @ the funeral home