Richard T. Martin

Richard T. Martin, 73, of Topeka, passed away July 24, 2016. He was born April 7, 1943 at Mullinville, Kansas to Richard Ray and Juanita Mae (Kesterson) Martin. He received his undergraduate degree at Ft. Collins, CO. He served his country in the US Navy aboard the USS Constellation. He graduated from Washburn University School of Law and established his own practice in Gainsville, MO where he also was elected prosecuting attorney.

Having an interest in teaching as well as family, brought him to teach legal studies for several years in south Florida at Webster College. As an alumnus to Washburn University at Topeka, Kansas, he began his professorship. During his tenure at Washburn he served on numerous committees along with being department chair for legal studies as well as president/vice president of academic affairs and legal associations for fellow students. He was honored with a plaque on a beautiful bench by his department which will be permanently placed in front of Benton Hall. He concluded his career as Grand Marshall of 2016 Spring commencement services.

He was an avid bird watcher and a member of the Audubon Society. He enjoyed sailing and was a member of the Perry Yacht Club. He loved literature, art, music, and attending concerts. He loved life!

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Kimberly, his daughter Lauren Michele and son Devon Ray all of the home; his adult children: Brad Alan (Sharon Anne), of Chicago, IL, Rachel Kathleen (Mark Allen) Clark of Wichita, KS and Richard Thomas Jr. (Eileen Rene Horn) of Lawrence, KS; grandchildren: Miles Samuel, Cole Parker, Jake Weston and Leopold David; and two brothers: James Royce Martin and Paul Gene Martin. He was preceded in death by parents and his sister Jeannette Ann Savely.

A private memorial service with military honors will be held. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care, www.midlandcareconnection.org or 200 SW Frazier Cir. Topeka, KS 66606.