Martin “Marty” Sass, age 65, passed away on December 12, 2025.

Marty, the baby of five children, was born to Lilah and Carroll Sass, on November 22, 1960, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Marty was the ultimate family man. His family was the center of his life and his number one priority, and everything he did reflected his deep love, loyalty, and commitment to them. He was generous, had a strong work ethic, and made lasting friendships wherever he went.

Marty graduated from City High School in Iowa City, Iowa, in 1979, and went on to earn his college degree from Iowa Wesleyan University in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, in 1983. During high school and college Marty played basketball with all his heart and was the self-proclaimed “best jump shooter”. In 1984, he moved to South Bend, Indiana, where his life changed forever. While working as a manager at Osco Drug, Marty spotted Karen behind the photo counter—and he was a goner.

Marty and Karen Sass were married on June 15, 1985, instantly becoming a family with Karen’s two children, April and Chad. Shortly after, they were relocated to Sterling, Illinois, where they welcomed Marty’s first child, Katie (1986). While still in the hospital, Marty received a call informing him of yet another relocation—this time to Omaha, Nebraska—and he moved his wife and now three children to begin their next chapter.

After a back injury he ended his career at Osco Drug, Marty pivoted without hesitation. He ran a daycare for a couple of years—because why wouldn’t he? Around this time, Kyle (1990), his baby boy was born, completing the family. Marty then began a career at First Data, where he would remain for 30 years.

During his time at First Data, Marty was relocated to Australia for two years, traveled extensively, created an ISO program on the back of a napkin, that is still thriving today, and built friendships he cherished deeply. His dedication, leadership, and ability to connect with people left a lasting impact. Marty worked hard and played hard. The office pranks were endless and borderline crazy. HR had quite the folder. It wasn’t often someone could out-prank Marty, but after he sent clients a dozen pink roses as a prank, that client retaliated and sent him Therapy Sheep—yes, multiple sheep—to work. The security guard, Charles wasn’t quite sure how to handle the situation, but Marty, ever the problem solver, helped him roll with it, turning an unexpected moment into a memory everyone laughed about.

Marty retired in 2020. The last five years of his life were spent traveling with Karen, taking his soul dog Sophie on golf cart walks, wintering in Florida, going on countless coffee dates with his granddaughter, and courageously facing his health challenges. He also loved researching his family’s history, knowing everyone’s name and how the Sass family was connected across generations. Marty was a true pillar of the family—the voice everyone looked to, always chosen to be the speaker and organizer at family events.

Marty was a proud Iowa native. He enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes almost as much as he loved giving Husker fans trouble, and he was a devoted Boston Celtics fan—especially during the legendary Larry Bird era. His other favorite team was whatever team his Grandson is playing on.

Marty leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family. He lived big, loved big and didn’t half-ass anything. His dedication and determination is something to be admired. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.

Couple of items that must be said:

1.) It’s pronounced SAUCE, not SASS.

2.) Euchre rule: Never trump your partner’s Ace

3.) Make it a double

A Celebration of Life (“Marty Party”) will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Sean O’Casey’s Pub, located at 2523 S. 140th Ave., Omaha, NE 68144. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor Marty’s life.

Marty is survived by his wife Karen Sass; his kids April (Garrett), Chad (Tammy), Katie (Josh), Kyle (Jacque); his grandchildren Travis, Austin, Alex, Haley, Jacob, Grace, Landyn, Brett, Gavin and Sterling; his siblings Jean, Cherrie, Robert and so many loved cousin, nieces and nephews.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/martin-sass/obituary/

Copy