Born on May 26, 1939, to Ruben and Ruby Belle Maertz in Sealy, Texas, R.W. was a man deeply connected to his roots. On November 22, 1959, he married the love of his life, Marcella (Speck) Maertz. They built a beautiful life together, rooted in the Mentz community where R.W. would eventually return to live.

A man of enduring work ethic, R.W. began his career at Parker Brothers Gravel Pit. He soon embarked on a lifelong passion, starting his own sawmill and continuing to cut wood well into his early 80s. He was a familiar and friendly face to many, known for his unwavering support of community organizations by enthusiastically selling raffle tickets for any cause he could.

R.W. found immense joy in his family. He treasured watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow and participate in their many activities, always their biggest fan. A lifelong and avid hunter, he looked forward to hunting season every year, traveling to Canada and various places across Texas to pursue his passion. He was a lifetime member of The Texas Sportsman Association and Hermann Sons Lodge #243 and a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbus.

He is survived by his loving sons, Terrel Maertz and wife Robin, and Travis Maertz and wife Vickie, all of the Mentz area. R.W. leaves behind a legacy in his adoring grandchildren: Casey Anderson and husband Ryan, Kelsey Zapalac and husband Josh, John Maertz and wife Rebecca, Colby Maertz and wife Lacey and Tori Bohrer and husband Tyrel Bohrer. His great-grandchildren, Myra and Grayson Anderson, Briley and Amelia Zapalac, Blair and Quinn Maertz, and Orrin and Tell Bohrer, will carry his memory in their hearts. He is also survived by his sister, Arlene Trojacek and husband Joe, his brother, Gordon Maertz, his brother-in-law, Horst Siewart, sister-in-law Betty Speck and several nieces and nephews.

R.W. was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Marcella Maertz, his parents, Ruben and Ruby Belle Maertz; sister-in-law Joann Maertz, sister-inlaw Glenda Sue Siewert, brothers-in-law Rex Speck, and Ricky Speck.

Visitation was Thursday Sept. 4, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home. A second visitation was held on Friday Sept. 5, from 1-2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, followed by funeral services at 2 p.m., with Pastor Alan Kethan officiating.

Burial took place at Myrtle Cemetery in Rock Island.

Pallbearers were John Maertz, Colby Maertz, Ryan Anderson, Josh Zapalac, Tyrel Bohrer, and Larry Kunkel.

Honorary Pallbearers were Casey Anderson, Kelsey Zapalac, Tori Bohrer, Myra and Grayson Anderson, Briley and Amelia Zapalac, Blair and Quinn Maertz, and Orrin and Tell Bohrer.

Memorials may be given to Myrtle Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 143, Rock Island, TX 77470 or St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 267, Columbus, TX 78934.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com