Kevin Ralph Martin

Kevin Martin, 68, of Kansas City, Kansas, died Friday, December 15. He bravely and stubbornly fought unimaginable health battles for many years. Born October 21, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri to Grace and Ralph Martin, he was the youngest of three rambunctious boys. He often biked with his best friend, Jeff, all the way to Antioch Park from his home in Rosedale. He was adventurous and loved to explore in the woods. He got in his fair share of trouble.

At 19, he started working at St. Luke’s Hospital where he remained a loyal employee for 45 years. He married Annie VanBebber in 1977 and had two daughters, Heather and Amy, who they took camping and hiking often, bestowing their love of the outdoors. He attended countless dance recitals and even helped lead Amy’s Girl Scout troop. He appreciated the arts, was a talented painter, and listened to music constantly, like his brother, Scott. He loved indie and classic rock the most. He was not one to turn down a road trip or a golf tournament.

He shared his lifelong support of the Chiefs with his brother, Tim. He married again at 50 and with Robyn Dawson he gained new step-grandchildren. This brought the count to ten grandchildren who they bravely took on trips to places like St. Louis and Disney World. Traveling was the highlight of every year, though he also enjoyed project weekends at home. He was an avid gardener with a beautiful yard.

He had Oklahoma Joes on speed dial. He gave his daughters their birthday horoscopes that he had clipped out of the newspaper. He had a strong sense of responsibility and kept an open mind. He will be remembered when Tom Petty songs come on. Or when we get our hands in the dirt. Or when we find an open highway. Probably for every little damn thing. He will be so sorely missed by all of us who love him.