Gene Allen Marten, 88, of Bettendorf, IA passed away at his residence with family by his side on May 8, 2023. A funeral service in honor of Gene will be held at 10 a.m. May 12, 2023 at Our Savior Lutheran Church. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at the time of service. Following the funeral, Gene will be laid to rest at Davenport Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church or to Genesis Hospice. Online, condolences and fond memories may be expressed at www.weertsfh.com
Gene A. Marten was born on October 11, 1934 in Canova, South Dakota to Ruth (Behm) and Arnold Marten. Gene attended Canova High School and went on to South Dakota State University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering. He spent most of his career working as a civil engineer for the US Army, retiring after 35 years. In 1957, Gene married the love of his life, Marlene Gorath and together, they had two children, Glen and Lori.
Gene was active in his communities and supported important causes such as education and faith. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, a member of the South Dakota State Academic Alumni Association, and an active church member at Our Savior Lutheran Church for 58 years. To list all of his memberships would be exhaustive. The bottom line is that Gene was a giver and a lover.
He filled many roles; BBQ grill master, jokester, and avid record collector. He had a particular love for all forms of Jazz and Blues. Gene also enjoyed classic comedy radio programs and old westerns. He loved playing card games with his daughter, especially cribbage, 10 point pitch, and canasta. Photography also brought him much joy, an activity he shared with his son.
Countless memories were made when their family went on excursions across the states. In Gene’s retirement with the children all grown up, Marlene and Gene enjoyed several cruises and adventures together. Photographs taken by Gene document the ocean sunsets they witnessed. Once, Glen and Lori were contacted by Gene saying, “Your mom and I are going on a vacation. I don’t know where we’re going, but we’re headed west and when we meet the ocean, we’re turning left”…
Those left to carry on Gene’s memory include his children; Glen Marten, Lori (Mark) Fedler; 2 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Marlene; daughter-in-law, Shirley Marten; one great-grandson, Justin; and both parents.
