Ron Martin 1937-2021

Phillip Ronald “Ron” Martin, 84, of Holton, passed away Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Medicalodges Jackson County.

He was born May 6, 1937, in Hoyt, the son of Christopher and Mildred (Winter) Martin.

Ron lived most of his life in Jackson County. He worked as fuel manager for Jackson Farmers Co-op for more than 20 years. He had also been a driver for Joe Collins Trucking in his earlier years. Ron was a lifelong farmer and stockman with a love for horses and his dog, Mindy. He was a true cowboy and gentleman.

He was a member of Mason’s Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Kansas-Perry Lodge #415.

He married Lois Bruton; they later divorced and she passed away in 2003. He married Violet Marie Fletchell-Blackburn on Nov. 5, 1978; she preceded him in death on Aug. 14, 2020.

Survivors include his five children, Judy Hinman (Wade) of Mayetta, Chuck Martin of Topeka, Lanna Kellnhofer (Bill) of Lawrence, Belinda Hopkins (Mel) of Georgia and Debbie Collins of Hoyt; two stepsons, James K. Blackburn (Diane) of Parsons and Gary D. Blackburn (Cynthia) of Topeka; a sister, Darlene Morgans of Olathe; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher and Mildred Martin; two sisters, Connie Lay and Rosemary Lester; and infant sister, Catherine Martin.

Ron will lie in state from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14 and Wednesday, Dec. 15 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 16 at the Steward Cemetery, 10548 V. Rd., Hoyt.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Holton Community Hospital Hospice, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

(PAID OBITUARY)