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).