John Edward Martsolf

John was born on September 8, 1941, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, to Howard and Jean (Schaney) Martsolf. He spent his childhood in Pennsylvania, and in 1960 he enlisted in the US Marine Corps and proudly served until his honorable discharge in 1963. John later moved to Grand Junction where he attended Mesa College and earned his business degree. He was a business owner and worked in distribution. John raised his family in Rose Hill, a suburb of Wichita, Kansas. He designed their home there and spent many hours out on their seven acres. He loved to be outdoors and enjoyed boating, fishing, and skiing. He had his pilot’s license and his own airplane and loved skydiving. John had the mind of an engineer; he was a mechanic and could build anything. He was also a wonderful cook. Above all, John loved being a father. He taught his children to drive and ride motorcycles and supported them in their endeavors. The family enjoyed many vacations together and visited many of the 50 states in their travels. Accommodations began with tents, then a camper, and finally a house on the lake where they made many cherished memories. John’s beloved dogs, Spike and Rex went with him everywhere. He will truly be missed.

John is survived by his brothers, William (Kathie) Martsolf of Fruita, Colorado, and Michael (Susie) Martsolf of Arizona; daughters, Kimberly Jacobsen of Savannah, Georgia, and Kelly Pedruzzi of Wichita; son, Christopher (Christina) of Wichita, Kansas; grandchildren, Alyssa (Gabriel) Groom, Evan Jacobsen, Brock Pedruzzi, Victoria Pedruzzi, Abigail Pedruzzi, Logan Martsolf, Cooper Martsolf, and Kinsley Martsolf; and three great-grandchildren, Kaleb Groom, Kohen Groom, and Kolbe Groom; and was beloved by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Jean Martsolf; and his brother, Howard “Howdy” Martsolf.

A military honors service will take place on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado, 2830 Riverside Parkway, Grand Junction, CO 81501. Memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to the charity of your choice.