John Martin, 80, Delavan

John Luther Martin, age 80 of Delavan, passed away at St. Mark Nursing home in Austin on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023.

John Luther was born Aug. 3, 1942 to Lester and Myrtle (Smith) Martin in Blue Earth. He grew up, went to school, served in the U.S. Army, and farmed in the Blue Earth area. He then spent a number of years in South Dakota, Colorado, and California where he owned and operated several businesses and farmed. For the last 13 years he legally owned and operated Johnny M’s Bar and Tavern in Delavan.

In 1964, he married Mavis (Arends) and together they had four children. He later met his significant other Kathy Lisko in 1992 while living in Corona, Calif. at “The Hop.”

John (Knobber) was definitely one of a kind and enjoyed life to the fullest and had a way of making a lasting impression on everyone he met. He enjoyed Elk hunting in the Colorado Mountains, Moose hunting in Canada, sitting in the boat on Lake Erie fishing with Captain Mitch, pheasant hunting in South Dakota, golfing, watching football games, and planning for his next trip or making the next bet. But especially spending time and making memories with his family and friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his significant other Kathy Lisko of Delavan; children Dawn Roegiers (significant other Kevin), Michele (Troy) Stindtman, Johnny (Jenny) Martin, and Patty (Marshall) Ahrens; sisters Gloria Quade, Mertice Reck, Janet (Robert) Werner, LeAnn (Jeff) Njoes, Rhonda (Craig) Harris; ex-wife Mavis Holmseth, 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother in law's John McCloskey, Lyle Quade and Floyd Reck.

In his honor, a celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 6 from 1-4 p.m. at the Blue Earth American Legion in Blue Earth, with a private family burial being held at a later date.