Martin Charles Puetz

Martin C. Puetz, of North Augusta, South Carolina, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, after a courageous battle with an unexpected illness. Marty is survived by his loving wife of twenty years, Cathi V. Chambley; his two children, Joseph and his wife Catherine Kjarstie Puetz, and their children, Joseph, Gabrielle, and Charlotte; and Rebecca Lynn Puetz and her husband Hanssel Infante Campos. He is also remembered by his former wife and the mother of his two wonderful children, Sharon Ann Puetz, of North Augusta; his siblings and their spouses Roberta (Puetz) and Steve Lehmkuhl, Rosemary (Puetz) and David Rinaldi, Brian and Diane Puetz; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families. Marty was predeceased by his parents, Floyd and Lucy (Frings) Puetz, and his youngest sister, Barbara Puetz. Born in Streator, Illinois, in 1950, Marty was raised with a strong foundation of faith, kindness, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. He graduated from St. Francis Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1968, and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, in 1972. These formative years instilled in him the values of service, integrity, and compassion that became guiding principles throughout his life. After serving honorably in the U.S. Army at Fort Gordon, Marty chose to make his home in the Augusta area, where the warmth of both the climate and community welcomed him. His faith and sense of duty, strengthened by his military service, naturally led him to the practice of law. He pursued his legal studies at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, earning his degree in 1978. For the next 47 years, Marty built a respected career as a defense attorney in both Georgia and South Carolina. He started out at the Federal Public Defender’s Office, then transitioned into private practice, spending the majority of his years as a sole practitioner. He became known for his tireless dedication, unwavering integrity, and the genuine care he showed to each and every client. Marty lived to serve, and for him, the law was not only a profession but also a calling— a way to stand beside those in need and give them a voice. His colleagues remember him as a trusted friend in the legal community, and his clients will always remember him as a steadfast advocate who never gave up on them. Beyond his work, Marty gave generously of his time to the wider community. He volunteered with Golden Harvest Food Bank and loved reading to children at Barton Chapel Elementary School, finding joy in helping others and encouraging young people. Whether in the courtroom or in the classroom, Marty’s presence was marked by warmth, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Marty will be remembered most for the love he poured into his family, especially his children and his grandchildren. He will also be remembered for the devotion he showed to his clients, and the quiet but powerful ways he served his community. He was quick to help others and never met a stranger. His faith, humor, and generosity of spirit will live on in those who were blessed to know him. Though he will be dearly missed, the legacy of his service and the example of his life will continue to inspire all who were touched by his kindness. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 5–7 PM, at Posey’s Funeral Directors, 1307 Georgia Avenue, North Augusta, SC. A memorial service will follow on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 4 PM, in the Posey Funeral Chapel. Friends and family are warmly invited to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to others. Memorials may be made to the Aiken County Animal Shelter, 333 Wire Road, Aiken, SC 29801 or Golden Harvest Food Bank, www.goldenharvest.org

Tributes

Martin Charles Puetz

March 23, 1950 - August 18, 2025