Ralph J. Martens Sr., 94 of Syracuse passed away on January 15, 2016 at the Syracuse Good Samaritan Center surrounded by family. He was born on October 19, 1921 to John & Rebecca (Bruns) Martens in Otoe, NE. Ralph graduated from Otoe high school.

Ralph married Norma Gean Wellensiek on October 8, 1945 in Syracuse, NE and to this union they had Ralph Jr., Earl and Betty. Norma Gean passed away in 1981. Ralph then married Eileen Thompson on January 7, 1983 in Hot Springs, SD.

Ralph was a lifelong farmer and loved the land. He also enjoyed bowling, camping and playing his instruments which included (trumpet, saxophone, guitar and drums). He played in a band for many dances. Ralph also sold Archer oil for many years. He was a member at Luther Memorial Church and served on the church council. He also served on district 10 school board.

Ralph is survived by his Children: Ralph & Susan Martens, Jr., Earl & Elaine Martens, Betty & Darrell Ihde; Grandchildren: Chad Martens, Eric (Mandi) Ihde, Jessica Ihde; Step Grandchildren: Rick, Tod and Gay Dawn Ihde; Great Grandchildren: Emerald Fosberg, Parker, Sawyer & Emmelin Ihde, Mariah & Jazmine Ihde; Stepchildren: Grover (Vickie) Thompson, Harold (Marge) Thompson; 8 Step Grandchildren; 12 Step Great Grandchildren; Brother-in-law: Dwight Roberts.

He was preceded in death by his Parents: John & Rebecca Martens; Wives: Norma Gean Martens and Eileen Thompson Martens; Sister: Bernice Roberts; Mother-in-law: Leona Kramer.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday January 20, 2016 at 2:00 P.M. at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church in Syracuse. Burial will be at Park Hill cemetery.

No visitation.

The family suggests memorials to the Syracuse Volunteer Fire Dept. & Syracuse Rescue Squad.

Arrangements By: Fusselman Allen Harvey Funeral Home, Syracuse, NE 402-269-2441