Kenneth W. Martin of Hot Springs passed quietly in his sleep at home with family by his side on March 30, 2011.

Kenny was born November 12, 1925, in Hot Springs, SD, to Charles and Grace Martin. Kenny came from early pioneers of South Dakota with historic ties to Deadwood, Hot Springs, and Martin. His early childhood was spent on the Martin Valley Ranch east of Buffalo Gap. From the ranch, the family moved into Hot Springs where Kenny lived most of his life. Due to his mother's job as State Director of Child Welfare, a second residence was kept in Pierre where Kenny played football and completed his last few years of high school. He attended Huron College. Kenny served in the US Navy during WW II. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW and the Elks Club.

On Aug. 15, 1946, he married Andrea Smith of Pierre. They were high school sweethearts who met while Andrea was guiding trail rides at Blue Bell Lodge. Together, they owned and operated several dry cleaning shops in Burke, Ft. Pierre and Hot Springs. In their later years, they owned Maverick Restaurant and Lounge where friends gathered sharing stories and laughter.

Throughout Kenney's life, he enjoyed horses and playing cards. He loved to hunt and fish and often joked about the buckshot he had accumulated from a "close" friend." He relished a "good deal", especially when trading cars. In later years, long country rides were enjoyed with a close friend and family.

Kenny had a generous, tender heart and faithfully cared for his aging parents, and other relatives. He was always there for his daughters and their families. He so enjoyed the many friends over the years. Their spontaneous visits on the porch were always welcomed and all enjoyed the laughter, stories and good food.

Kenny was preceded in death by his wife Andrea Smith Martin, his parents Charles & Grace Martin, his sister Gracemae Ashmore, his brothers Wyatt and Eben Martin, and Great-Grandson Nicolas Hanson.

Kenny is survived by his sisters-in-law Nadine Smith of Hot Springs and Marie Martin of Issaquash, WA. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his three daughters Cheryl Zimiga (Sam) of Rapid City, Karen Lockhart (Kevin) of Hermosa and Laurie Martin of Rapid City. Kenny's legacy will continue with his grandchildren: Tina Shagla, Toni Hanson, Toby Meyer, Caine Shagla, Amber Hammon, Jeremy Meyer, Brent Zimiga, Maranda Derr, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Services will be held Friday, April 8, 11:00 AM at McColley's Chapel of The Hills, Hot Springs, SD.

A Memorial has been established for Hospice of the Black Hills and the Hot Springs Historical Society in Kenny Martin's name.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.