Gary L. Martz

Gary L. Martz, 78, of Bedford, died on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital. He was born on June 7, 1943 in Schellsburg, a son of the late W. Wilson and F. LaRue (Mensch) Martz Sr.  He is survived along with the following family: a fiancée Jan Lesh of Bedford; three daughters: Janenne Martz; Jill Buterbaugh and husband Justin; and Jeri  Martz  all of Bedford; one son Andy  Martz of Bedford; 9 grandchildren:  Crystal, Louie, Marissa, Cody, Katie, David, Emily, Elizabeth, and Kacey; 10 great-grandchildren; one sister Sandy Zembower and husband James of Bedford; a brother Bill Martz and wife Mary Ann of Osterburg; and his lab Molly.  He was preceded in death by his wife Frankie (Whitfield) Martz and a brother Ned Martz.

Gary was a 1961 graduate of Bedford High School and was active in the FFA, and served as president in 1960 of the local chapter. He attended Lock Haven University as a gymnast.  He started his career by working as a mechanic for Orville Conner in Breezewood.  Along with his brother they both started Martz Brothers and in 1970 the name was changed to Martz Chassis.  He built many race cars, dirt track cars, and the business evolved into street rods in which he continued to build until his death. He even ventured into Nascar with some of his work. His biggest hobby was racing late models and he was working on rebuilding one of his race cars. He raced at Bedford Speedway, Jennerstown, and Motordrome. He was inducted into the hall of fame at Jennerstown Speedway, Bedford County Speedway, and also the Bedford County Sports Hall of Fame. He also enjoyed hunting and spending time with his dog.  

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 25, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at the Bedford United Methodist Church in Bedford, with Rev. Robert Marsh officiating.  Friends will be received on Friday from 9 - 11 a.m. at the church. Arrangements by the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home in Bedford.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s name to Bedford County FFA Activities Assoc., 152 NBC Drive, Loysburg, PA 16659. Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.