James Michael Martenson

Jim was born in Long Prairie, Minnesota to Carl and Johanna Martenson. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church, Long Prairie, Minnesota. He graduated from Long Prairie High School and Wadena Area Technical Institute in Civil Engineering. Following graduation, he proudly served in the United States Army.

On May 21, 1977, Jim was united in marriage with Barbara Ernst at Fairview Lutheran Church in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

Jim was a man of deep faith and these values guided all areas of his life. He dedicated over 30 years of his career to working at the City of Burnsville Minnesota. In addition, Jim was an active member of the American Legion Post 580 in Chanhassen, Minnesota and the American Legion Riders. He was a dedicated family man. Jim loved to travel, including driving his RV and riding motorcycle cross country. He was an active member in church, including over 30 years at Cross View Lutheran Church in Edina, Minnesota, serving in many areas of ministry. Jim is a current member of Family of Christ Lutheran Church in Tampa, Florida.

Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Barbara; his daughter, Kendra Langmade (Jeffrey); son Zachary Martenson; grandchildren, Kali Langmade and Addison Langmade.

Jim is preceded in death by his son, Erik; his parents; and sisters Helen Birkholz and Carol Martenson.

His Celebration of Life will be on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Cross View Lutheran Church, 6645 McCauley Trail W, Edina, Minnesota. Visitation at 10am, service at 11am and lunch reception to follow at the church.

Family will hold a private committal service to honor James at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Friday, July 10, 2026.

To honor Jim’s memory, the family invites you to contribute to “The American Legion Legacy Scholarship” in lieu of flowers, continuing Jim’s legacy of supporting children of U.S. military members who died while on active duty on or after September 11, 2001.

Donations may be made by clicking

https://mylegion.org/personifyebusiness/Give/Donate-Online/Donate-Now?CashProductId=134416

Please dedicate your gift "In memory of James Martenson".