Martin Jantz
Martin L. Jantz, 80, was born Oct. 23, 1921, in Glendive, Mont., the ninth of 11 children born to Peter and Mary (Thomas) Jantz. He and his parents moved to Hillsboro when he was seven.
He attended grade and high school in Hillsboro, graduating in 1941. He farmed with his dad for a short time and worked for Groening Motors in Hillsboro before entering construction work in Marion.
The remainder of his career was spent with the Riddle Quarry from 1946 to 1966, Hallett Construction from 1966 to 1986, and Martin Marietta, retiring after 40 years.
In 1944 he married Helen Wunsch of Marion. They had two children, Michael Jantz of Arkansas City and Janice Bell of Olathe.
He enjoyed woodworking and could build or repair about anything. He loved gardening and working in his yard. In his later years he enjoyed traveling.
He was a member of Eastmoor United Methodist Church and served on various committees including treasurer, Sunday school superintendent, and member of the choir.
He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Joe, Dick, Frank, and Arthur; and two sisters, Eva Nickel and Lorena Wedel.
He is survived by his spouse, Helen, of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Cheryl Jantz of Arkansas City; daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Mike Bell of Olathe; one brother, Paul Jantz of Lake Havasu City, Ariz.; three sisters, Lydia Duerksen of Hillsboro, Ruth Suderman of Newton, and Susie Yeakel of Denair, Calif; and three grandchildren.
There was a pre-service for the family officiated by the Rev. Robert Suderman.
The funeral was Saturday morning at the Eastmoor United Methodist Church with the Revs. John Goering and Marilyn Cox officiating.
The vocalist was Greg Carlson singing "Beyond the Sunset" and "Under His Wings" with Anita Brookens as the organist. The congregational song was "Near To The Heart of God."
The active casket bearers were Tyler Jantz, Bryan Chestnut, Gary Duerksen, Glenn Carlson, Dennis Winkler, and James Jantz. Honorary bearers were Ed Hein, Bob Brookens, Royal Smith, Warren Woerz, Harold Carlson, and Pat McCann.
The committal service was at the Marion Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established with the church.
