John R. Martenson was the youngest of six children. His education began in a one-room schoolhouse. He graduated from Princeton High School in 1945 and enrolled at Bradley University. In 1946, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and spent most of his military career in Inchon, Korea, while attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he continued his education at the University of Illinois and graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree. 

John began his working career selling insurance for Country Companies and then sold seed at Valentine Seed Company in Bristol, IL. He married Mildred Seggebruch on April 30, 1955, and then taught agriculture for three years in Paw Paw, IL. Having been successful at farming, John and Millie acquired their farm in 1962 near Shabbona, IL. John and Mille had three children who benefited from the farm life; Doug, Karla, and Jeff. In 1978, another opportunity presented itself, creating the Martenson Turf Products, Inc. seed company. John and Millie built this company and worked the farm for many years with great success. The Martenson family still owns and operates both businesses. 

John R. Martenson passed away on September 16, 2015. A family Scholarship Fund was created in his memory at the DeKalb County Community Foundation. It was John and Millie’s belief that an agriculture career can lead you in different directions even within one’s lifetime. A college education opens the door to those opportunities, but a person must strive thru trial and error to find their own best career path. The Martenson Family Scholarship Fund contributes to the educational expenses of a graduating senior from Indian Creek High School pursuing a career in agriculture.