The Richmond News, June 26, 2026

The family of LeeRoy Martens Jr., formerly of Richmond, announces his peaceful passing on June 17, 2026, at Parkway Assisted Living in Blue Springs. LeeRoy was born May 13, 1935, in Sugartree 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 also 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 in 1953 from Norborne High School and later took post-high school classes at Wentworth Military Academy. He served honorably in the U.S. Army.

His career was diverse, with roles at Butler Manufacturing, the U.S. Postal Service, Kansas City Bolt Nut and Screw Co., Lake City Arsenal, the Army 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 his Wood Badge, Powderhorn and Commissioner training, and was a member of Mic-OSay. He enjoyed adventures to Philmont, N.M.; Dorchester, Canada; and many other places.

LeeRoy loved taking care of and growing his plants and flowers. He also loved spending time at “the Lake,” teaching others to water ski.

He enjoyed his Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. He 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, it’s suggested that donations in Lee-Roy’s memory be made to Ray County 4-H, the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home or Honor Flight. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and funeral services were scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation to begin at 1 p.m. and the services to follow at 2. Burial was to be in Fairhaven Cemetery, Norborne, with military honors provided by the Army.

Please share your memories of LeeRoy with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.