Martin Lenz, Jr., age 88½ of Dodgeville/Linden, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison surrounded by his family.
Born to Martin Sr. and Ruth Lenz, Martin moved from Milwaukee to the Mineral Point area when he was four months old. He was a 1956 graduate of Dodgeville High School where he excelled at track and was an active member of the FFA.
Martin dedicated his entire life to farming, finding his greatest purpose working the land and caring for his cattle. Farming was more than his livelihood—it was his passion, his heritage, and the life he loved. He was happiest in the fields, in the barn, or behind the wheel of a tractor.
Proud to serve his country, Martin joined the United States Army Reserves and faithfully served until he was honorably discharged in 1964. He carried the same sense of duty, commitment, and integrity throughout his military service and remained a dedicated member of the Linden American Legion.
With a sporty car and a quick wit, Martin charmed the love of his life, Rosemarie. They were married on August 24, 1963, beginning a partnership built on love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Martin often spoke with pride about their 62-plus years of marriage, a testament to the deep bond they shared. Martin missed Rosemarie dearly following her passing on April 11, 2026. The family finds comfort in knowing he and his honey babe are together once again.
A lifelong enthusiast of antique tractors and farm equipment, Martin was an avid collector who took great pride in preserving agricultural history. Within that collection, he was most proud of many that were originally purchased by his father and used on their family farm when he was a young boy. Blessed with an extraordinary memory until the very end, Martin could recall exactly where every tractor in his collection came from and was delighted to share the story behind each one.
Above all, Martin cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosemarie, his brother John on March 11, 2026, and many in-laws. He is survived by his youngest brother, Leonard; his children: Bill (Lori), Kathy (Pat), and Thomas (Lecia); his grandchildren: Ashley (Ben), Kylie (Caleb), Emily (Andrew), Grace, and Aiden; several great-grandchildren; and his in-laws: Joan Lindeman and John Husum.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Christian Servants Home Care for their wonderful care and support. Martin loved his caregivers, who became family and allowed him to enjoy his bonus days at home.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Peace Lutheran Church in Cobb, WI, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with military honors and burial to follow at Eastside Cemetery in Dodgeville. Houck Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.houckfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Linden First Responders, 444 Jefferson St., Linden, WI 53553, or Badger Honor Flight, Inc., P.O. Box 258066, Madison, WI 53725.
Lulloff-Peterson-Houck Funeral Home
Dodgeville • 608-935-3628
www.houckfuneralhomes.com