Jean Martensen

Jean Martensen, 88, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, surrounded by her husband and daughters.

Born Jean Carolyn Bendt on April 28th, 1938, in Donovan, Illinois, she was the daughter of Elvera Anderson and Peter Bendt. Jean grew up on the south side of Chicago, a neighborhood she loved and carried with her throughout her life. Her brother, John Bendt, preceded her in death in 2008.

Jean married the love of her life, Daniel Martensen, in 1961 after the two met as summer camp counselors. Together they built a life rooted in faith, justice, family and service to others.

A lifelong advocate for equality and human dignity, Jean was active in the civil rights movement during the 1960s and remained deeply committed to social justice throughout her life. She fought against racism, championed women’s rights and advocated for people facing injustice around the world, including support for the Palestinian people. In the 1970s, while living in Switzerland during Daniel’s work with the Lutheran World Federation, Jean earned her PhD in Women's Studies, reflecting her lifelong dedication to learning and social engagement. Later, in the '80s and '90s, Jean and Daniel worked for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, where she directed departments focused on women’s issues and peace education before retiring in the early 2000s.

Jean found joy in gardening, time with family and being near water. One of her happiest places was the family’s lakeside cabin near Frederic, Wisconsin, where she cherished quiet days by the lake surrounded by nature, family and friends.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel Martensen; her daughters, Kari Meyers and Rebeka Martensen; son-in-law Gary Meyers; and her beloved grandchildren, Sydney, Mackenzie and Daniel.

Jean will be remembered for her radiant smile, her strength, her warmth and her unwavering commitment to peace and justice.

In lieu of flowers, Jean would have appreciated donations to a cause you believe in. Thank you.