Martin “Marty” Woerdehoff, age 73, of Wall Lake, IA, passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at St. Anthony Regional Hospital in Carroll, IA, surrounded by his loving family.
Martin Irwin Woerdehoff was born on May 20, 1953, in Carroll, IA, to parents Arthur and Evelyn (Ricke) Woerdehoff. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Breda, IA. Marty grew up on a farm in Wall Lake and attended St. Bernard Catholic School in Breda, graduating in 1971. He briefly attended business school before deciding that the classroom wasn’t where he belonged. He returned home to the family farm, beginning what would become a lifetime devoted to farming and hard work.
On February 19, 1982, Marty was united in marriage to Sherri Bieret at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Wall Lake. Through their marriage, Marty gained a son, Jeremy. Their relationship grew into something especially close, and Jeremy was not only Marty’s son, but truly one of his very best friends.
Farming wasn’t simply Marty’s occupation—it was his passion and a way of life. He continued farming until illness forced him to slow down just a few months before his passing. Over the years, Marty raised cattle, helped neighboring farmers whenever an extra hand was needed, and drove semi for several area businesses. He also spent many years working at his family’s business, Wall Lake Used Parts. Marty was a go-getter with an incredible work ethic. Sitting still was never something that came naturally to him.
When Marty did take a little time away from work, he knew how to enjoy himself. He liked visiting the casino and could be found sitting at the blackjack table. For whatever reason, luck seemed to be on Marty’s side more often than not when there was a wager involved. He also enjoyed playing cards with family and friends and the laughter and friendly competition that came along with it.
Marty was a familiar face around Wall Lake and rarely missed an opportunity for a good conversation. Many mornings included a stop at the Country Store, where he could catch up with friends and make sure he was current on all the latest small-town news. Friendly and outgoing, Marty enjoyed people and had a way of making conversation wherever he went. He was known for his quick wit and great one-liners and always enjoyed having a little fun. And anyone who knew Marty knew he wasn’t afraid to share his opinion—whether you asked for it or not.
At the center of Marty’s life were two things: his faith and his family. He was a devoted Christian whose faith guided the way he lived. Marty attended Mass faithfully, often several days each week.
As much as Marty loved farming and staying busy, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He treasured the time spent with those closest to him and took particular joy in being a grandfather and great-grandfather. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren truly were the light of his life, and time spent with them was among his greatest blessings.
Marty lived his life working hard, loving his family, practicing his faith, helping others, sharing plenty of opinions and usually finding a reason to laugh along the way. He leaves behind the legacy of a hardworking farmer, a devoted man of faith, a loyal friend, and above all, a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who loved his family deeply.
Marty is survived by his wife, Sherri Woerdehoff of Wall Lake, IA; son Jeremy (Jennifer) Wunschel of Wall Lake, IA; grandchildren: Paige Wunschel and Peyton Wunschel both of Wall Lake, IA, Brooke (Keagan) Scott of Odebolt, IA, Colton (Marissa) Skirvin of Ida Grove, IA, and Josh Skirvin of Wall Lake, IA; great-grandchildren: Reese and Luke Scott, Sutton, Jaxon and Rowen Skirvin; brother Arnie (Barb) Woerdehoff of Lake View, IA; sisters Lanette Schafer of Panora, IA, Donna (Chris) Schafer of Adair, IA, and Kate (Bart) Maere of Panora, IA; mother-in-law Norma Bieret of Wall Lake, IA; brother-in-law Chris (Sharon) Bieret of Wall Lake, IA; sister-in-law Jan Bieret of Wall Lake, IA; many nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Evelyn Woerdehoff; brother Ronald Woerdehoff; father-in-law Paul Bieret; brothers-in-law Ron Schafer, Dave Bieret, and Wayne Poen.
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS the family will be gifting any monetary donations to local organizations in Marty’s memory.
