It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Martin Brodhagen, who died as the result of a farming accident on Monday, September 22, 2025, at his residence in Brunner, Ontario. He was 72 years old.
Born on June 29, 1953, in Stratford, Ontario, Martin was the son of the late Reuben and Mabel (Buddenhagen) Brodhagen.
He was a devoted father to Amanda Brodhagen and her boyfriend Derek Glaspell, and to Bryan Brodhagen, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Martin will be deeply missed by his brother Elvey Brodhagen of Brunner, and his sister Ruby (Brian) Schultz of Ripley. He is predeceased by his sisters Shirley Brodhagen, and Joyce (Glenn) Winteringham.
He spent a life devoted to the land and caring for livestock on his family’s Century Farm. He was very proud of his beef cattle herd and sought out continuous improvements over the years. He loved farming alongside his family and would go out of his way to help his neighbours when they needed a hand.
In his younger years, he was a Junior Farmer member, 4-H member and later a 4-H leader. It was through 4-H that he met the love of his life Brenda and they built a wonderful life together farming on their homestead celebrating 40 years of marriage. He was passionate about supporting youth and helped many young kids get their start showing cattle in the hay days of Hangenlea Shorthorns. He also worked at the livestock barn in Milverton for many years and enjoyed the thrill of the auction and socializing.
He will be remembered for his larger than life sense of humour and the contributions that he has made to agriculture and his farming community.
Relatives and friends are invited to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Moserville, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, for a funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the adjoining church yard cemetery. A celebration of Martin’s life will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. at the Perth East Recreational Complex. All are encouraged to come and visit with the family.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to the St, Pauls Lutheran Church, Moserville, or 4-H Ontario and can be done on the funeral home website.
