Sep 28, 1930---Dec 17, 2023

Robert Arthur Martin (Bob) went peacefully to heaven surrounded by family members on December 17, 2023 at his target age of 93.

Bob was a proud alum of the University of Wisconsin (class of 1952). From there he went on to a lengthy career in marketing, working at the executive level at Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company in Milwaukee, United Vintners in San Francisco (President), Applebee’s in Overland Park, and Lone Star Steakhouse in Wichita.

Among his favorite pleasures in life were playing tricks on the world with his twin brother, Roger, playing any number of card games – most notably Sheepshead, Bridge, and Gin Rummy, listening to and attending opera and theatre, playing golf, and spending time with those he cared about. He also made and enjoyed the best Maker’s Mark Perfect Manhattan on the rocks with an olive.

Bob joins a heavenly team of family members including Harold Martin, Marie Martin, Ted Rusco Sr., Bea Rusco, Roger Martin, JoAnn Martin, Ted Rusco Jr., and Phil Nelson. That team continues to be supported in life by his loving wife of 46 years, Kaye Martin, his five children Sally Serio (and husband Dennis), Paul Martin (and husband AJ), Ted Martin (and wife Claudia), Valerie Martin, and David Martin (and wife Jessica), his two grandchildren Clay Martin (and wife Sahara) and Nick Martin, his sister-in-law Sue Rusco, his nieces Linda Martin, Ellen McNally, and Nan Martin (and their families), and his either soon to arrive or just arrived great grandchild Finn Martin. Bob will be deeply missed by all those who knew him and felt the glow of being in his commanding presence.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023 from 4-6 pm at the Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia in Lenexa, KS. A funeral mass will be held at Cure of Ars Catholic Church (9401 Mission Road, Leawood, KS) on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 10 am. Burial in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Lenexa, KS.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Wayside Waifs, Catholic Community Hospice, or a regional theater (particularly the Olathe Civic Theatre Association, The Barn Players, or Quality Hill Playhouse).



Condolences

Pam and Mike Haskin Dec 20, 2023

friends ,Gardner ,Kansas

We remember so many wonderful evenings playing bridge with Bob and Kaye and joking about gambling away our grocery money. Bob was a powerful presence in so many lives, and though he will be missed greatly, he has left a legacy of memories that will last for many lifetimes to come. Our hearts are with Kaye, David, Valerie, and all of Bob's family and friends.

Mark and Irvilene Gardnet Dec 20, 2023

Friends ,Naples ,Florida

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Bob. He was a wonderful person. Not only was he witty & fun to be around but he had such a kind heart. We love you Bob and know you are now in the loving hands of God. We also send our love and condolences to our most dear friend, Kaye as well as to Val and Dave. With Love, Mark & Irv

Shari Smalley Dec 20, 2023

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Today I heard such sad news., Bob was a great man and beloved by all. My condolences to all of his family and especially to my dear ones Kay, Valerie, David and Jessica. We had the best of times and wonderful memories at Cure’. As you navigate these tough times; wishing you strength, courage,, love and blessings, Shari

Sue Dubill Dec 20, 2023

Friends from Cure of Ars ,Overland Park

We are so sorry to hear this.....he was quite a guy & he will be missed....our hearts hurt for all of you, we hope your memories can help you through this difficult time.. please know that lots of prayers are coming your way to help you as you move forward one step at a time, one day at a time...hugs to all of you & much love, Sue & Andy Dubill

Cindy Nivens Dec 20, 2023

Friend ,Marana ,Arizona

Thank you David for posting your Dads passing. Although time has passed since we were together, there are so many good memories. Sending love and prayers!

Rachel (Zanders) Doucet Dec 21, 2023

I will always remember Mr. Martin with a smile and a glint in his eye, and always with a calmly powerful presence. I’m so grateful for all the happy memories in the Martin home, made possible by the fun-loving, welcoming, and generous duo of Mr. and Mrs. Martin. Sending all my love to you all.

Michael J. Nolte Dec 21, 2023

Kaye and Val…May the Infant Jesus soften this loss and just know Bob is having the best “Christmas” ever. Affectionately, Mike

Richard & Laura Burt Dec 21, 2023

Bob will always have our love and gratitude. We did not know him well, but always enjoyed his company when in his charismatic orbit. The love between him and Kaye remains an inspiration, and see his legacy living on in our dear friends David and Valerie. May his memory be a blessing.

Bob Steinkamp Dec 21, 2023

friend and co-worker ,Liberty ,Missouri

Bob was a wonderful person and loved by many within Applebee's and the Applebee's franchise system. He was a good friend and a joy with whom to sit and have lunch. He loved his family, the theater and the opera. He will be missed by many. The family has our deepest sympathy for his loss.

Eric and Lana Hansen Dec 25, 2023

Applebee's Board of Directors ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Bob was always there with a funny story. On any topic, he always had "just two things to say about that". A meal with Bob and Kaye was always a treat. Kaye, Valerie and David, we are sorry for your loss. It is a loss to all of us.

Charlotte and Joe Mussafer Dec 27, 2023

Loving friends ,Montgomery ,AL

To the family of the wonderful Robert (Bob) Martin, Our hearts are broken and we are so so saddened at the loss of our very dear friend. Our love and condolences go to his beloved Kaye and all of the family. He will be greatly missed. Charlotte and Joe Mussafer.

Ira Schick Dec 28, 2023

Friend of family ,Kansas City ,Missouri

My deepest sympathies go out to the entire family. Bob was a great man full of joy and always made you laugh. Although I only knew him for a short amount of time, he was someone I always looked forward to see at the monthly meet up . No one dealt with the hands he was given better than Bob. He will truly be missed.

Services

Event:
Visitation
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia St
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Dec 29, 2023
Time:
4:00 PM
Google Map:
Event:
Funeral Mass
Location:
Cure of Ars Catholic Church
Address:
9405 Mission Road
City:
Leawood
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66206
Date:
Dec 30, 2023
Time:
10:00 AM
Google Map: