David Martenson, age 89, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 4, 2024 with his fiancé, Beth Charter, and daughter, Jennifer (Binger) Pace by his side.
Dave was born on November 20, 1934 to Louis and Loretta Martenson in Rockford, IL. After Dave graduated from East High School in 1952, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Millikin University in Decatur, IL. and then earned a scholarship to the University of Chicago Law School to complete his law degree. At Millikin he was active with the Young Republicans and played on the tennis team.
After graduating with his Doctor of Law degree, he joined John B. Anderson's law firm in Rockford and after several years he formed his own law firm with Jim Donahue, which was the beginning of a long, successful career, which eventually included other partners, Peter Alexander and Brent Blair.
For those that knew Dave, he had an absolute thirst for life. His favorite places to travel were France, where he would spend 3-4 weeks each year; Vail, CO where he taught his children to ski; Dana Point, CA and Wrigley Field where he finally got to see his beloved Cubs win a World Series after many frustrating years as a loyal fan. Door County was among his top places to visit for rest, relaxation and frozen custard.
Although Dave was busy with his law practice and family, he always had a hobby to keep himself energized. I'm sure many of his friends and family had a bottle or two of his homemade wine, which was probably best used in cooking versus drinking by the glass. Passion doesn't equal skill, but he put his love and energy into every bottle!
To view the complete obituary, visit
David Martenson Obituary (1934 - 2024) - Legacy Remembers
