Memorial

Brian William Martens, age 52, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2023. He was born on June 8, 1971, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Brian was a cherished son, loving brother, and dear friend. His family and friends will gather for the burial in the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Brian dedicated his career to his craft as the owner and frame specialist at Wausau Art and Framing. Through his meticulous work, he brought beauty and elegance to countless pieces. His talent and passion were unparalleled.

Brian found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including his pets and his love for motorcycles and vintage cars. Brian was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed hosting movie nights and playing pinball. His infectious laughter will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Brian graduated from Washington High School in 1989 and attended Iowa State University where he met the love of his life, Laura.

Left to cherish Brian’s memory are his beloved father, Roger Martens, and his stepmother, Jo Martens of Dallas, Texas. He is also survived by his former wife, Laura Martens of Wausau, Wisconsin; and his three sisters and two brothers: Molly Synnott (and Brian) of Briggsville, Wisconsin, Amy Efeney (and Mike) of Rockwall, Texas, Kim Smith (and Steve) of Coppell, Texas, Jonathan Still (and Jody) of Snoqualmie, Washington, and Kevin Still (and Dixie) of Gainesville, Texas. Brian will also be missed by his aunt, Susan Danne of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as well as his nieces and nephews: Ann Matuseski (and Jordan), Carlee Nelson (and Tommy), Selena Still, Dillon Still (and Sabrina), Jacob Synnott, Trey Efeney (and Danni), Ben Smith, and Harrison Smith. In addition, he leaves behind his uncle, Tom (and Pam) Martens of Fresno, California and many, many cousins.

Brian was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Barbara Martens, his grandparents, Frank and Lillian Strnad, and Walter and Lillian Martens, his great-uncle George K. Baldwin, and his uncle Walter Martens. May they find eternal peace in each other’s company.

Services to honor and celebrate Brian’s life will be held at the Brainard Funeral Home in Wausau, Wisconsin on Friday, February 9, 2024, from 4-7 pm. A second service will be held in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in late spring/early summer 2024. Thank you to the compassionate professionals at Cedar Memorial (Cedar Rapids) and Brainard Funeral Home (Wausau) for assisting the family during this difficult time. Their support and guidance are deeply appreciated.

Brian’s legacy will forever shine bright in the hearts of those who knew him. May he find solace in the embrace of eternal peace.