Werner “Vern” Marten, 80

July 02, 2025

Born in Berlin, Germany in 1945, Werner “Vern” Marten came to the United States in 1966 on a Fulbright scholarship. He attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he studied business and history. While still in school, Vern worked for the Paul Todd Spice Extraction Company, where he discovered a lifelong passion for food ingredients, flavors, and spices. This passion would lead to a successful and dynamic career. He joined McCormick Spice Company, which took him from coast to coast. Later, an old McCormick colleague recruited him to join Flavors of North America, managing flavor sales across the northeastern United States and in Europe until his retirement in 2002.

Vern’s life was so much more than work. He traveled extensively, visiting nearly every continent. He loved engaging with people from all walks of life and delighted in experiencing local cultures—especially through food. Vern had a deep appreciation for community and was an active member of several clubs, including the Lititz Boro Parks Committee, the Warwick Education Foundation, the stamp club, the movie club, the garden club and the local German Liederkranz.

He was a proud advocate for AARP, always eager to share resources and support others in aging with dignity and independence. In keeping with his passion for education and history, Vern established the Berlin Airlift Scholarship at Warwick High School. Never one to shy away from civic engagement, Vern also ran for state representative as a member of the Green Party, driven by his commitment to social justice, sustainability, and grassroots democracy.

At home in Lititz, Vern found his greatest joy in his garden. Whether planting a new tree, transplanting a favorite shrub, or simply digging in the dirt, it was his sanctuary. He could have spent all day, every day in the garden, and was there whenever he could be.

More than anything, Vern will be remembered for his kindness and his genuine interest in others. He took the time to listen to people—their stories, their dreams, their struggles. His warmth, curiosity, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Vern is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Nicki, two daughters, one son, six wonderful grandchildren, two great grandsons, a sister-in-law, a niece here, nephews in Germany, and a loyal dog who adored him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations be made to The Nature Conservancy, honoring Vern’s lifelong love of nature and commitment to environmental stewardship.

The family will receive guests from 10-11 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A service will begin at 11 AM. Immediately following, there will be a casual gathering with refreshments at Lincoln Shoe Co., 101 W. Lincoln Ave, Lititz, PA 17543.