James H. Martell, 73 of Wahpeton, ND, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2 pm, with a visitation one hour before, at Harvest Outreach Church in Wahpeton. Pastor Dominick Warne will officiate the service.
Jim was born on April 29, 1952, in Yakima, Washington. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1975. During his service, he was first stationed in Minot, North Dakota, spent a year stationed in Thailand, and completed his military career in California.
In 1974, Jim married Cheryl Edinger in Carrington, North Dakota. Following his military service, they made their home in Wahpeton, North Dakota, where Jim built both a career and a life centered on family. He worked for several years as a welder for Wil-Rich while also managing and renovating rental properties throughout the Wahpeton/Breckenridge community. A skilled carpenter, Jim took great pride in improving his properties with his own hands.
Jim deeply valued time spent with his family. He loved fishing, camping, and canoeing trips, creating countless memories outdoors. He welcomed the birth of his daughter, Kimberly, on January 16, 1979, and his son, Corey, on June 4, 1983 — both of whom he loved beyond measure.
After Cheryl’s passing in 2015, Jim remained active and generous with his time, using his carpentry skills to help family and friends. In later years, he found companionship and happiness with Lee Uong. On May 28, 2024, Jim and Lee made a commitment to each other to be married in the eyes of God.
Jim will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his craftsmanship, his quiet generosity, and his love of family.
He is survived by his children, Kimberly Thornton of Fargo and Corey Martell of Horace; his grandchildren, Shelton Thornton III (Fargo), Montgomery Thornton (Fargo), and Calli Martell (Moorhead); his wife, Lee Uong (Fargo), along with her children, spouses, and many grandchildren; and his siblings: Charlotte McDonald (Jim) – Idaho, Steven Martell (Brenda) -Minnesota, Marie Clement (Jim) – Minnesota, Linda Schmitt (Robert) – Minnesota, Merle Martell (Jacquie) – New Mexico, Karren Martell – New Mexico, Angie Watkins (Dan) – North Dakota, and Bonnie Lazarevich – Wisconsin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant sister, and his wife, Cheryl.
Jim’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the homes he managed and restored, and the memories he created with those he loved.