Christopher G. Martin

Christopher G. Martin was born on September 29, 1956, in Imogene, IA, to Edward and Esther (Anderson) Martin. He was the fifth of six children.

On May 29, 1976, Chris married his high school sweetheart, Mary Kimmel. The two shared 49 years of love, laughter and partnership raising their three children together, Heather, Jeremy and Cory. Chris was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found joy in every moment spent with family.

Chris began working at Pizza Hut at the age of 16 in Norfolk, NE. In 1983, Chris was promoted to manager and moved to Ainsworth, NE. His strong work ethic and leadership carried him through a long and dedicated career with the company, where he made many lasting friendships and earned many awards. He retired in 2020 after decades of service.

He deeply loved his community and was involved in the Ainsworth Chamber of Commerce. Chris also enjoyed participating in the local Horseshoe Pitching Club and took great pride in contributing to the life and spirit of Ainsworth.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Esther Martin; his brothers, Dennis Martin and Dan Martin; his sister, Kathy Martin; father-in-law, Durward Kimmel; mothers-in-law, Barbara Kimmel and Carol Kimmel; and grandsons, Brandon Hollenbeck and Isaac Martin.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Martin of Ainsworth; children, Heather Hollenbeck and husband, Brian of Long Pine, NE; Jeremy Martin and wife, Amanda of Goodland, KS and Cory Martin of Omaha, NE. He was a proud grandfather to Garrett, Courtney, Derek, Marie, Jacob, Conner, Claire, Lizzie, Vivian and John. Also surviving Chris are his brothers, Dick (Deb) Martin of Battle Creek, NE, and Tim (Colleen) Martin of Lincoln, NE; sisters-in-law, Paula Martin of Maryville, MO, Jackie Martin of Pierce, NE, Pat (Gary) Painter of Canton, SD, Cathy (Mike) Brungardt of Storm Lake, IA, Chris (Jim) Cooney of Omaha, and Sue (Kelly) Kleinsasser of Tucson, AZ; brothers-in-law, Jim (Rhonda) Kimmel and Mark (Kim) Kimmel of Norfolk, Mike (Debbie) Wietecha of Wylie, TX, and Dave Wietecha of Norfolk; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Christopher G. Martin will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, sense of humor, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy of generosity, hard work, and devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Chris passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk at the age of 68 years.

Funeral Services were held on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Ainsworth with Fr. Mike Wetovick as Celebrant. Trudy Nolles provided music with the congregation singing the songs: “Be Not Afraid,” “Amazing Grace,” “One Bread, One Body” and “On Eagle’s Wings.” Casketbearers were: Sean Schipporeit, Brandon Glenn, David Bussard, Robert Barkwill, Mark Williams and Jeremy Lurz. Honorary Casketbearers were: All of Chris’ grandkids and other former employees. Memorials were suggested to the family in Chris’ name for future designation. Interment followed in the Ainsworth Cemetery under direction of the Hoch Funeral Home of Ainsworth. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.