Kenneth Dale Martin

 Kenneth “Kenny” Dale Martin, 71, of Platte City, MO, passed away peacefully at home in Chanute, KS, on June 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. 

Born December 9, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Melvin and Georgia Mae (Blackburn) Martin, Kenny was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend. Kenny grew up in the Kansas City and Platte City areas and was a lifelong hard worker. In the 1970s, he began his business career alongside his brothers, Gary and Jerry, working in construction, real estate, and development. Known for his determination and grit, Kenny was as dedicated to his work as he was to his family, always putting others first and showing up with strength, humor, and heart.

 Outside of work, Kenny lived life with energy and enthusiasm. He competed in barbecue competitions, rode his Harley-Davidson with pride, and never missed a chance to cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs. He loved spending time at the lake, traveling the country in his motorhome with Tina, and helping others with projects, offering not just tools and labor, but wisdom and kindness. Kenny had a natural talent for problem-solving, and he was always the first to lend a hand or find a solution. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Tina (Castle) Martin; and six children who were the pride of his life: Jason Neff (Jennifer) of East Wenatchee, WA; Tina Jaworski (Stephen) of Lenexa, KS; Scott Martin (Jackie) of Platte City, MO; Cassie Cleaver (Jason) of Chanute, KS; Kenna Martin (Kristian) of Platte City, MO; and Kaila Combs (Joshua) of Columbia City, IN. 

Kenny adored his grandchildren: Alex and Ella, Annika and Brogan, Justice and Journey, Weston and Jarrett, Georgia, and Gatlin, and McCoy, and Adaliene. His love for his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment spent with them. 

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Katie, his brother Jerry Martin, and his parents. 

A memorial celebration of Kenny’s life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 PM at 1890 & The Fields Event Space, 15640 Hwy 92 Spur, Platte City, MO 64079. All who knew and loved Kenny are welcome to attend. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Hospice in Kenny’s name. Online donations can be made at hynesmemorial.org/ways-to-donate, or checks made payable to Harry Hynes Hospice may be mailed to: Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave, Chanute, KS 66720 (Please include “In memory of Kenneth Dale Martin” with your donation.) 

To view photos, share a memory, or learn more about Kenny’s celebration of life, please visit: www.kennethdalemartin.com. Kenny's legacy of love, integrity, and dedication lives on in all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Cremation has been requested and is under the personal care of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, KS.