James M Martin

Jim’s life began on April 6, 1935, in Atchison, Kansas. He was the son of Eugene and Esther (Massey) Martin. Jim was a 1953 graduate of Atchison High School and attended college for a brief time, but the business world was calling him. At 18, Jim bought his first business, a tavern in Atchison and later opened one of the first convenience stores in the community. He went on to own a Gamble’s store in Littleton, CO and soon after began putting his entrepreneurial skills to work in the oil and gas industry. He had leases all over the central plains of the United States. He was united in marriage to Blanche Dunshee on June 7, 1962, in Cottonwood Falls and they enjoyed 62 years of adventure and marriage. Jim was a member of the B.P.O. Elks for over 50 years, and he enjoyed golf. He was especially proud of his gardening and his lawn keeping. Jim loved his John Deere mower. Jim is survived by his wife Blanche Martin of Council Grove, sister in law Glenda Martin of Atchison, nieces and nephews Sara (Stan) Rasic of Colorado Springs, Tracey Perez of Colorado Springs, Debbie Scherer of Atchison, Brandi Rasic of Colorado Sprins and Dana( Sherri) Rasic of Colorado Springs and numerous great nieces and great nephews . Jim passed away on Tuesday October 28, 2025, at Morris County Hospital. He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Robert and Ferrell Martin. His family will gather with friends on Saturday November 1, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sawyer Funeral Home, Council Grove for a reception and Celebration of Life. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be directed to the Morris County Hospital Foundation. Please sign his online guestbook and leave a memory of Jim at www.sawyerchapel.com.