The family of LeeRoy Martens Jr., formerly of Richmond, announces his peaceful passing on June 17, 2026, at Parkway Assisted Living in Blue Springs, Missouri.
LeeRoy was born on May 13, 1935, in Sugartree, Missouri, to Ruth “Kelb” Oster and LeeRoy E. Martens, who preceded him in death. He was 91 years young.
LeeRoy shared a remarkable life with his beloved wife, Mary Ruth Ferguson, whom he married on June 19, 1954. Together, they built a family filled with love and many memories. Mary predeceased him, along with their children, LeeRoy E. Martens and Sara Virginia Martens, and his sister, Helen Beretta.
LeeRoy’s legacy continues through his surviving children: Ruth (Jim) Mellor, David Martens, Kathy (Kirk) Bohanan, and Robert (Johnna) Martens. He is survived by his siblings, David (Shirly) H. Martens, Marilyn Wansing, Linda (Jim) Baker, and Diane (Dale) Feitz. He was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
LeeRoy graduated from Norborne High School in 1953 and later took post high school classes at Wentworth Military Academy. He served honorably in the United States Army. His career was diverse with roles at Butler Manufacturing, the United States Postal Service, Kansas City Bolt, Nut, and Screw Company, Lake City Arsenal, the Corps of Engineers, and Consolidated Freightways.
Beyond his professional endeavors, LeeRoy volunteered with 4-H for 53 years. He was part of a Century 4-H family and earned a place in the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame. He also served as a volunteer for Boy Scouts of America, assisting with Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Venture Crew Units. He completed Wood Badge, Powderhorn and Commissioner training and was a member of Mic-O-Say. He enjoyed adventures to Philmont, NM, Dorchester, Canada, and many others.
LeeRoy loved taking care of and growing his plants and flowers. He loved spending time at “the Lake”, teaching others to water ski. He enjoyed his Honor Flight to Washington, DC, and loved to share his pictures and stories with all. He loved his grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Parkway Assisted Living and the Advanced Home Health and Hospice providers who offered compassionate care during LeeRoy’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested in LeeRoy’s memory be made to Ray County 4-H, Missouri Baptist Children’s Home, or Honor Flight. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation with funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M., with services to follow at 2:00 P.M. Burial will be in Fairhaven Cemetery, Norborne. Military honors provided by the United States Army. Please remember to share your memories of LeeRoy with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
