John Luther Martin, Springfield, Mo, was one of twelve children born to Ira and Susie Maritn of Elvins, Mo. He was born May 20, 1926, and went home to meet his Lord and Savior on August 12, 2011, in his home surrounded by those who loved him.
John was a proud WWII veteran with the 6th Infantry in Luzon, Philipines. He received the Bronze Star for his service. After his discharge, he was united in marriage to Jane Francis on November 19, 1948. To this union, four children were born. Following his retirement from Laclede Gas, St. Louis, Mo, John and Jane traveled extensively until 2009 when his health declined. John loved to fish and hunt, and he and Jane were active golfers and square-dancers for many years. John was an active member of South Haven Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. He was also a life member of the VFW and DAV.
John is survived by his wife, Jane, and his children, Richard Martin, Grand Prairie, Tx, Alan Martin, Irving, Tx, David Martin and wife Gloria, Troy, Mo, and Karen Martin Herrmann and husband Gary, Springfield, Mo. He was also the proud grandfather and great grandfather of Todd Martin and wife Miriam (Allison and Helena). Matthew Martin, Sarah Cyr and husband Craig (Mae and Boone), Meagan Martin (Joey and CJ), John David Martin, Corey and Cody Moore, and Travis Herrmann and wife Rachel (Zachary and Alexandra). He is also survived by brothers, Gene Martin, Park Hills, Mo, and the Reverend Dr. Jim Martin, Lithonia, ga, as well as many other relatives and friends.
John was preceded in death by two much loved daughters in law, Susie Clark Martin and Karen Williams Martin, as well as his parents, step-father, Wilbur Smith, and nine of his siblings, Henry, Irene, Charles, Zella, Lela (Kelly), Ruby, Jesse (Sleep), Hilda Jane and Oscar.
The family would like to express special thanks to the South Haven Church family and Tuckness Sunday School class who provided food, support, and prayers for John and the family during his illness, and to the staff of Good Shepherd Hospice.
Visitation will be Sunday, August 14, from 5-9 pm. at Greenlawn Funeral Home South, 441, W. Battlefield, Springfield, Mo. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 15, at 2 pm at South Haven Baptist Church in Springfield.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 3250 S. National, Springfield, Mo of the National Kidney Foundation at NKF, 1003 Olive Blvd, Ste 200, St. Louis, Mo 63141-7777.