Stephen Lee Martin

Steve Martin of Overland Park, Kansas passed away peacefully on September 18, 2015 surrounded by members of his loving family.

Born in Waco, Texas in 1950; Steve spent almost 40 years of his life in Texas before he and his wife, Mary moved to Overland Park, Kansas in 1989.

A life-long aviator, he flew his first solo flight at 12 years old. At that young age, he worked on Saturdays at Ball Airport in Victoria, Texas in exchange for one-half hour of flight instruction. After graduating with an aviation degree from Central Texas College in the early 70’s, he became a flight instructor and taught many individuals to fly over the years. Steve received a Bachelors Degree in Aviation Engineering from The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Central Texas and subsequently embarked on a life-long career in commercial aviation.
He retired from America West Airlines with the rank of Captain in 2002. His former employers include America West Airlines, Braniff, Midway and Rio Airways. He was also a corporate pilot for Louisiana Pacific and Texas Crushed Stone.

His greatest passion in life was his loving and selfless dedication to his family and friends. He was an honest,
hard-working, kindhearted and strong individual who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Steve loved the simple pleasures in life and often would reminisce about his favorites. His interests spanned from history to the latest technological innovations. Being a child of the 1950’s he loved to talk about growing up in that era.

His family and friends, especially his grandchildren, were always in the forefront of his thoughts and actions.
He was most happy when he was making someone else happy.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Grace Martin of Overland Park, Kansas; Daughter Stephanie Pierce of Needville, Texas; Son Brad Martin of Liberty Hill, Texas; Daughters Suzanne Donelson and Leanne Dalley of Overland Park, Kansas; Step Son Louis LePoris of Fort Worth, Texas:Grandchildren Edward Leporis, Michael LePoris, Jacob LePoris,Mika and Meridith Donelson, Colton and Coy Pierce, Aiden Martin, Rylee Dalley; Parents Bob Martin of Victoria, Texas and Jean Langford of Gatesville, Texas; Sister Suzanne Martin of Gatesville, Texas; Brother Tim Martin of Gatesville, Texas;Nephew Chris Martin; Neice Lauren Madsen;
Nephews Ben and Schuyler Martin.

There is a private family service planned. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to St. Jude’s Childrens
Hospital in honor of Steve Martin – www.giftfunds.stjude.org/stevemartin