David Clarke Martin

David Clarke Martin of New Prague, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Health System Hospital St. Mary’s Rochester.  David was born on March 25, 1944, in Minneapolis, to Harlan and June Lucille (Berg) Martin.  He grew up in Excelsior and graduated from Minnetonka High School.  David attended the University of Minnesota, studying English, History, and Geography, with a focus on European history and WWII.

David had a love of the outdoors and a dedication to conservation.  When at the U of M, he served as president of the Rovers Outing Club, which explored canoeing, caving, hiking, and all activities outdoors.  He attended Red Wing Vocational Technical Institute, becoming a wind-energy technician working as a trouble-shooter on wind turbines and teaching at the school.  He also delivered mail as a rural carrier for several years.

David married Joanne Dahlen in August, 1972, in Minneapolis and they enjoyed 52 years together, moving to the New Prague area in 1983.  It was the small farm that he and Joanne bought when they moved to New Prague that gave David one of his greatest challenges and brought his dedication to conservation full circle.  Along with their son, Carl, they transformed the property by putting it into the conservation reserve reforestation effort of Rice County.  The family renovated a rustic spot on an island on Lake of the Woods, supporting David’s love of the wilderness.  He will be remembered for his love of animals, eloquent use of language, enthusiasm for steam trains, and cooking extravagant meals.

David is survived by his wife, Joanne Martin of New Prague; son, Carl (Monica Herrera) Martin of Dublin, CA; two grandchildren; brother, Richard (Mary) Martin of Jacksonville, OR; sister, Joanne Geyen of Fort Myers, FL.  He is preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial will be held in the spring.  

bruzekfuneralhome.com