The Inimitable Marty Hertel: A Life of Laughter, Generosity, and Lasting Impact
As I sit here, reflecting on the life of Marty Hertel, I am reminded of the profound impact he had on mine. It’s a testament to the power of human connection that a person can leave an indelible mark on our lives, even if our paths diverge over time. Marty, or Martin, as some knew him, was a force of nature – a whirlwind of wit, humor, and kindness that left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
I first met Marty in 2002, a year that would prove to be a pivotal one in my life. It was the year I met my ex-wife, and coincidentally, the year Marty entered both our lives. At the time, Marty was my boss at Communications and Commerce (Comm.Comm), but it wasn’t until I took my ex-wife on our first date that our paths crossed in a more meaningful way. As fate would have it, I stumbled upon Marty’s sister in an MSN chat room, and when she discovered where I worked, she revealed that her brother was my boss. The world suddenly felt smaller, and I was about to discover why.
Marty was a man of unapologetic humor, always ready with a witty remark or a clever quip. I recall the time he met my ex-wife, who was fond of wearing rather…unflattering JNCO pants. Marty, never one to mince words, told her, “You look like you’re wearing a burlap sack.” It was a bold, honest, and hilarious comment that set the tone for our relationship. But beneath his humor lay a heart of gold, a generosity that extended far beyond words. He bought my ex-wife feminine clothes to wear and even helped her with an eyeglass prescription. Marty looked out for people in real, tangible ways, and his impact on our lives was palpable.
In many ways, I owe my marriage to Marty. He encouraged my ex-wife and me to keep talking, even when things seemed uncertain. His influence helped us navigate the ups and downs of our relationship, and I often wonder if we would have made it down the aisle without his guidance. Marty also played a significant role in my ex-wife’s spiritual journey, as she had given her life to the Lord at his church just before we met. This was a crucial factor in my decision to marry her, as I wouldn’t have considered a partner who wasn’t Christian.
The year 2002 was a complex one for me, marked by both joy and sorrow. I lost my brother, Justin, and Marty’s presence felt like a balm to my grieving soul. He reminded me of Justin – kind, generous, sweet, and funny. We shared many laughter-filled moments, including a memorable golf game in Salt Lake City. On the third hole, I hit a ball that struck another player in the chest from halfway across the course. As I rushed to apologize, the man shook it off, saying, “I’m too drunk for it to hurt.” Marty and I laughed about that incident for years, and it remains a cherished memory.
As our lives intersected, Marty became an integral part of our family’s story. He officiated our wedding, presiding over our vows as we began our life together. His presence even brought my sister and his cousin together, resulting in a child, although their relationship was short-lived. The ripple effects of Marty’s life continued to resonate, connecting people and creating lasting bonds.
When our first son was born eight years later, we named him Iriel Martin Thompson, in honor of the man who had made such a significant impact on our lives. It was a deliberate choice, a way of acknowledging the debt we owed Marty for his guidance, support, and generosity.
As the years went by, I lost touch with Marty, but his memory remained vivid in my mind. I will always remember him as a steady presence, a generous heart, and a man who made people laugh. His legacy lives on, a testament to the power of human connection and the impact one person can have on another’s life. As I bid farewell to this remarkable individual, I am left with a sense of gratitude and a deep appreciation for the time we shared.
Rest in love, Marty. Your memory will continue to inspire laughter, kindness, and generosity in all who knew you. May your life be a reminder to us all of the profound difference we can make in the lives of others, often in ways we may never fully realize. Sláinte, dear Marty – may your journey be filled with joy, love, and the knowledge that you will never be forgotten.
