Joan Laneta Martin
ESKRIDGE - Joan Laneta Martin, 93, passed away during the evening hours of Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Emporia Presbyterian Manor.
She was born November 9, 1930 in Manhattan, Kansas the daughter of Carl and Rose Blank Harrold. Her family moved to Eskridge when Joan was a small child. Joan attended Eskridge High School where she graduated with the Class of 1948.
Joan married the love of her life, Max O. Martin on December 15, 1948 in Eskridge. The young couple would begin their lives together in a home on Pleasant Plain Road before settling down on their farm south of Eskridge. Joan and Max raised their family and remained on the farm for over 53 years.
Joan retired from Blue Cross and Blue Shield after more than 30 years of service as a switchboard operator. She was not one to stay still for long. She soon began driving for Wabaunsee County Transportation. This was a perfect fit for Joan as she enjoyed visiting with people and being able to take in the beauty of her surroundings.
Max unexpectedly passed away on December 21, 2001. Joan stayed on the farm until moving to an apartment in Auburn in 2007. In 2012 she moved to Vintage Park in Osage City. Joan has resided at Presbyterian Manor in Emporia since 2019.
Joan and Max were devoted members of the United Presbyterian Church in Eskridge. After moving to Auburn she attended the Auburn Presbyterian Church.
Joan will live on in the hearts and countless memories of her daughters; Linda Rogers and husband Clyde of Belleview, Sharon Sardou of Olathe and Cathy Calley of Osage City; a son, Danny Martin and wife Donna of Eskridge; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; numerous extended family and a community of dear friends. She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Lori Ann Rogers; a grandson, Cory Walquist; a sister, Janice Pletcher and a brother, Richard Harrold.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Eskridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel 107 N. 6th Street, Osage City, Kansas 66523. Condolences may be expressed at vanarsdalefs.com.