Joshua Martell

The man, the myth, the legend. Joshua (Josh, Big Josh) Patrick Martell was truly one of the great ones. He was a jack of all trades and master of all. Fearless in pursuit of his dreams and desires. And a beacon of laughter with his jovial spirit and quick-witted jokes.

But there are not enough words in this lifetime or spaces on this page to fully capture and honor the essence of his life. His sudden and unexpected passing on May 18th, 2024, has left an aching emptiness in the hearts of countless friends and family, and the world, as a whole, will never be as bright without him.

Josh was born April 22nd, 1986 (age 38) at the Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater, MN to his adoring parents, John and Julie. He was the middle child between his older brother, Jordan (age 40), and younger sister, Brittany (age 36). He perfectly fulfilled his sibling role by serving as the creator of laughter and keeper of peace.

Josh graduated from Osceola High School in 2005 and Central Lakes College in 2006, where he studied heavy equipment operations and maintenance. He then explored a variety of careers with a central focus that gravitated toward his passions of motorsports and farming. His excitement for these career paths and unwavering determination allowed him to naturally excel in these areas, which kept his life compass aligned with his gifted talents. His farmer’s heart loved his cattle, horses, and, of course, his dogs. He was proud of the cattle he was raising and was working toward growing his herd to 100+ head. His adventurous character loved taking in the sights while snowmobiling and motorcycling.

Josh was proudly engaged to be married to his loving fiancé, Jennifer (Jenni) Humphrey, on June 30th, 2024. “Big Josh” became his family nickname, while “Little Josh” was reserved for Jenni’s son. Big Josh and Jenni lived together on a hobby farm. They raised cattle, horses, a pack of dogs that included just about every breed, chickens, pigs, peacocks, ducks, geese, and cats galore. The stories of love and laughter were abundant. With a firm foundation of happily-ever-after, Big Josh and Jenni were building a legacy for their beautifully blended family. Jenni and her children were so important to Big Josh, and he was devoted to them in all that he did.

He was always excited to meet people with similar interests and made endless connections with those who shared such devotions. They quickly became his closest friends who closely resembled extended family. His heart and compassion for people surpassed his love and passion for anything else. His lighthearted personality and easy laughter made others feel comfortable, joyful, and welcomed in his presence. His intentional conversations reminded everyone that they mattered to Josh. Above all else, he was honest, humble, kind-hearted, and loyal.

His surviving family include his parents, John and Julie Martell; his brother, Jordan (Stephanie) Martell; his sister, Brittany (Jeremy) Williams; his fiancé, Jennifer Humphrey, and her children, Jennica (Cody) Buhr, Jessica (Mitchell McConaughey) Warner, Jassmyn (Logan Reindahl) Warner and Josh Iverson; his nieces, Lydia, Kora, Adriel, and Arewyn Martell; and his dogs Ben and LB. He also leaves behind countless extended family, friends, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Roland and Theresa Martell and Leo and Darlene Crotty.

The wonderful life and zest of Josh will be celebrated on Wednesday May 29, 2024, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Somerset, Wisconsin. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11AM. Visitation for one hour prior to Mass at the Church. Luncheon at St. Anne’s immediately following the Mass. Family and friends will gather at Gibby Lane’s in New Richmond to share stories and toast Josh following the luncheon.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the family.