Stephen C. Martin

Stephen “Steve” Clair Martin, born on December 31, 1948, in Norton, Ks, passed away at UNMC-Omaha on August 8, 2024 at the age of 75. Due to a blizzard, his parents, Robert and Burdella Martin, were unable to return to the Hendley farm for several days after his birth.

 Steve spent his early years in Hendley, where he completed eighth grade before going on to graduate from Beaver City High School in 1967. During his high school years, Steve was a decorated three-sport athlete and was honored as Homecoming King. He continued his education at McCook Junior College, where he played football and graduated in 1969. Steve later attended Kearney State College.

 In 1972, Steve joined the United States Army National Guard, serving honorably until his discharge in 1977.

 Steve was united in marriage to Alice Holeman and welcomed a son, Sean Stephen in 1970. Later, he married Terri Smith in 1979. 

 Steve dedicated 35 years to Burlington Northern Santa Fe, retiring in 2009. He had a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing in both Canada and the U.S. Steve also cherished time spent with family and friends, particularly around any table where a game of pitch or scat was being played.

 Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Burdella; brother, Randall; sister, Sheryl Miller; son, Sean Martin; mother-in-law Carol Smith; brothers-in-law, Ray Hardenbrook, David Buss, Jim Smith and nephew Landon Smith.

 He is survived by his brother, Doug (Joan) Martin; brothers-in-law, Brian Miller and Jerry Smith; sisters-in-law, Toni Hardenbrook, Joyce Smith, and Cheryl Buss; and his beloved niece, Kagan (Jason) Seim, who held a special place in his heart. Steve also leaves behind many other nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

 Steve will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of the outdoors, and the countless memories shared with those he loved.

 In a final act of generosity, Steve arranged to donate his body to the Anatomical Board of the State of Nebraska. In accordance with his wishes, no funeral will be held. His cremains will be interred at a later date in the Lynden Cemetery, Hendley, Ne