Harry E. (Ellzie) Martz Jr, 88, of Clarion passed away suddenly at home on October 8, 2024.

He was born in his childhood home at the corner of Payne Street and Greenville Avenue on December 30, 1935. He was the son of the late Harry E. Martz Sr and Pearl (Brocious) Martz.

He was a graduate of Clarion Area High School in 1953. Ellzie volunteered for the draft in 1955. Once called upon, he went to Fort Jackson, South Carolina for his basic training in the U.S. Army. After completion he then went to Fort Knox, Kentucky for armored training with the 3rd Armored Division. Next in his military career he went to Fort Riley, Kansas with the 1st Armored Division "Big Red One". His next assignment was at Fort Irwin, California for 2 months of gunnery. After completing the gunnery training, he was stationed at the Scofield Barracks in Hawaii, serving with the 89th Tank Battalion where he was a wrecker operator and welder in battalion maintenance. In 1957 he returned to Clarion where he served in the 323rd Chemical Company Reserves where he finished out his 6-year obligation and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant.

On November 25, 1955 he married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Louise Schaeffer, who survives. They would have celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary this year.

Also surviving are three daughters: Susan Smith of Surprise, Arizona, Leslie Wright (Carl) of Rochester Mills, and Dina Unger (Shawn) of Templeton. 4 grandchildren: Joey Unger (Makayla), Kayelee Smith (Jesse Floyd), Jake Unger (Clarissa), and Olivia Wright. 6 great-grandchildren: Brealeigh Smith, Jayce Unger, Gaige Unger, Teagan Unger, Jaxx Unger, Ryker Unger, and several nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by his family.

Ellzie was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Betty Klingler (Fred), Jean Dittman (Robert), Mary Sherman (Jack), Wayne Martz (Mary), and John Martz. He was the last surviving member of his family.

After proudly serving in the Army, he worked in Clarion all his life. Ellzie was a talented wood worker and loved hunting and fishing. He shot the biggest buck of his life in 2022 and was looking forward to hunting this deer season.

There will be no public visitation per his request. A private burial will full military honors will be held. Interment will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Instead of flowers, the family of the deceased would prefer that you make donations to the VA Medical Center in Ellzie's memory.

Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home in Clarion.

Friends and family may send online condolences, memorials, and obtain additional information by visiting www.goblefh.net.