Donald Martens Obituary

Don was born December 11, 1931 on a farm west of Fairview, OK to Albert and Minnie Martens. He passed on Monday, July 21, 2025 at Fairview, OK. Don grew up as a typical 1930's farm kid with three younger brothers. He learned the value of hard work and the fun of a family who enjoyed close friendship and many adventures. He established a deep relationship with God and loved the study of the Bible as his faith carried him through all aspects of his life. Don graduated from Corn Bible Academy in Corn, OK then pursued an education at Grace Bible Institute in Omaha, NE. He married a Fairview girl, Norlene Joyce Fast, and they started a wonderful life of love and commitment together. Three children, Garen, LaDonna, and Sharla completed their family. Don was gifted with an understanding of business and driven by a strong work ethic, honesty, and strong faith. He and his brother-in-law Walt Bartel became partners in a small weld shop. Their company grew into Waldon Inc., which manufactured farm equipment, bucket loader tractors, and forklifts. The company was influential in the worldwide steel and metals manufacturing industry and eventually employed over 250 employees at their Fairview factory. He loved the people who worked with him and always gave the credit of success to his employees who built the company. He made it a point to know each one personally and to treat them kindly, fairly, and with dignity. The achievements of their business was felt by the local area as well as nationwide and he was recognized as Oklahoma Small Businessman of the Year 1980. They sold the company in 1983 and Don went on to other business ventures, community/charity/volunteer work, and his enjoyment of ranching with his grandson Travis Pembrook. Don was one who loved people and to be involved in his community. He was skilled to work with others, solve problems in practical ways, and understand financial concepts. He served on many boards and committees including Fairview MB Church, Mennonite Brethren Foundation, Fairview Chamber of Commerce, City of Fairview Council and as Mayor, CHIEF Native American Ministries, and one of his greatest passions, the Fairview Fellowship Home board. He was focused in his vision and direction as he served in many capacities to serve and provide for his fellow man. Grandpa Don was a source of strength, sound advice, quiet leadership, and a deep love for his family. His greatest delight was to be together with his family to visit with individuals or to quietly observe the activities. Don is survived by his wife, Joyce Martens; children, Garen (Eva) Martens, LaDonna (Lonnie) Pembrook, Sharla (Mike) Pinn; grandchildren, Travis (Beth) Pembrook, Jason (Stephanie) Martens, Galen (Ashley) Martens, Jackie (Andy) Sperling, Lily Pinn; great grandchildren, Bret and Bryson Pembrook, Jake (Sophia) Martens, Anna Martens, Drew Martens, Ethan, Carson, and Ryan Marti, Harper and Alice Martens; Kate and Evan Sperling. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday at Pierce Funeral Home, Fairview. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Fairview Mennonite Brethren Church with Pastor Travis Schmidt officiating. Interment will follow at the North M.B. Cemetery under the direction of Pierce Funeral Home, Fairview. Memorials can be made through Pierce Funeral Home to the Fairview Fellowship Home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.piercefuneralhomes.com.