Mr. James Ralph Martin

James “Ralph” Martin June 12, 1916 - July 11, 2015 Ralph was born in Springfield, MO, and the oldest of four sons born to Faye and Herschel Martin 99 years ago. From early on, Ralph was a hard worker and an industrious young man. He earned an ‘A’ in wood carrying while in primary school and was always considered the best worker in every one of his jobs. While attending 24th and Lawn Church of Christ, Ralph met the love of his life, Trudy. She was a few months older and he did not want to marry until they were the same age. Unable to wait another day, they married on his birthday in 1938. They lived in Kansas City and Clinton, Mo. Ralph and Trudy had two young children when Ralph joined the Army and served in the Pacific Rim. Leaving two small children and Trudy at home, he sent all of his income to them, as well as making arrangements for their care in his absence. His family was made complete when he returned uninjured from WWII and had a third child. Well known as “The Bike Man” of Martin City, Ralph has been honored by many for his service to others. Earning the Bronze Star for his bravery in WWII and the Humanitarian Award of Martin City. Ralph served as a Boy Scouts troop leader in Troops 225 and 338 for ten years and a preacher while working for KCP&L for 36 years. He was loyal and cared deeply for others and encouraged everyone he met to come to the Church of Christ. A Bible scholar, he read the Bible every morning reading it cover to cover many times over. An avid sports fan, Ralph cheered for the Chiefs and especially the Royals. He was the biggest cheerleader for his family and eagerly sought updates about their lives, accomplishments and goals. His 3 brothers, Roger, Pete, and Jerry, precede Ralph in death; two were WWII Veterans, and his wife Trucelle of 76 years. He is loved and missed by many, but especially his family. Daughters Virginia Chapman (Ted), Jaylene Shelton (Jerry), son Jim Martin (Cheryl), 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Poppie has been a role model and friend to many. His sharp mind and interest in others never waned, nor did his love for Trudy. He cared for her during their 76-year marriage and each of the 918 days since her passing, he talked about how much he loved and missed her. The void he left is only made better knowing how happy he is that they are reunited again. Our thanks to the KC Hospice Gold Team and gratitude and thanks to the caregivers from Home Instead: Cynthia Basel, Gloria Masters, Maria Stutzman & Kristi Hall. Memorial contributions may be made to the Belton Church of Christ, 103 Myron Ave., Belton, MO 64012 or the Kansas City Hospice & Palliataive Care, 1500 Meadow Lake Pkwy., Suite 200, Kansas City, MO 64114. Condolences may be left at www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com. Arr. D.W. Newcomer’s Sons Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO, (816) 353-1218.