Marten N. Garn

Marten Neil Garn, judge by trade, and pastor, youth leader, and farmer by desire, of Charlotte, MI entered his Heavenly Father’s Kingdom November 16, 2021. Marty, age 61, was born in Charlotte, MI on January 16, 1960 to Richard Wayne and Mary June Garn.
Marty was a notorious prankster with an incredible sense of humor; he had a knack for witty puns and the ability to lift the spirits of all those around him. He was a history buff who loved to share his knowledge with others, and was an exceptional writer both in hobby and legal practice. Marty loved working on his beefalo farm and spending time outdoors when he wasn’t working for the court. His mechanical abilities and craftsmanship served him not just on the farm, but with numerous remodeling projects around his home and church. He enjoyed many lasting friendships and treasured each relationship, old and new. Marty valued God and family above all else, and lived each day as an example for all to follow. His faith and daily life were rooted in scripture and while he ministered in so many ways, his gift of song was truly inspiring. As a youth pastor, he introduced countless teens to Christ, and facilitated numerous trips across the country, creating lifelong memories and friendships both for the kids and the communities they visited. He believed in life experiences, and opened his home to exchange students from several countries over the years. His passion and commitment to Christ left an impression on everyone he met, and his impact continues to be felt around the country and around the world.
Marty is survived by his wife, Leslie; five children, Cherie (Jeffrey) Williams, Stephanie (Christopher) Loving, Matthew (Lindsay) Garn, Hannah (Ryan) Budnik, and Miles (Annie) Garn; five grandchildren, London, Avery, and Paxton Williams, and Hudson and Adaley Loving; his sisters, Melissa (Douglas) Walton and Madora (Steve) Graffeo; his mother, Mary June Garn; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Matthew Garn, brother-in-law, Douglas Walton, and his father, Richard Garn.
Visitation will be held at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte on Saturday, November 20 from 4-6pm, and at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center on Sunday, November 21 from 2-3pm followed by his Funeral service from 3-4:30pm. Dinner will follow. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home. Friends and family may share memories of Marty on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com