Kerry L. Martin

Kerry L. Martin passed away on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the age of 78. Kerry was born in Washington, MO to Harold and Hilda Martin on March 2,1948.

Beloved husband of the late Barbara L. Martin (nee Julien); Devoted father to Edith (Nathan) Voyles, Laura (Patrick) Anson, and Leslie Hardesty; loving grandfather of Taylor Ann Marie Anson and Jaxson James Hardesty.

Kerry was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Hilda (nee Eggert) Martin.

He was a loving brother to the late Harold Martin, the late Dennis Martin, the late Sandy Saunders (nee Martin), and Debbie Parsons (nee Martin). He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Kerry was born and raised in Washington, MO. A proud Blue Jay, he graduated from Washington High School in 1966 where he served as class president and played basketball. He went on to attend the University of Science and Technology in Rolla, MO and the University of Missouri St. Louis where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. He then started a career as a chemical salesman, specializing in laundry and warewash chemicals. Kerry built a reputation as an innovator and problem solver in the cleaning and laundry industry. He developed numerous cleaning products that were used at many businesses. His knowledge of cleaning chemistry and laundry processes was unmatched, and when others couldn’t solve a problem, they knew who to call. His expertise made him the person people sought out time and time again. He took great pride in his work.

While his professional accomplishments were remarkable, those who knew him best will remember that his greatest success was not measured by the products he created, but by the laughter he shared, the love he gave his family, and the lasting impression he left on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Kerry met his wife Barbara on a blind date in 1973. Just six months later they were married, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 53 wonderful years.

A true Girl Dad, he was always there to fix a car, help with homework, make you laugh when you were sad and wipe your tears with his hanky. His greatest legacy is not only what he accomplished in his career, but the love, values and memories he leaves in the hearts of the girls who proudly called him Dad and his grandchildren who called him Papa.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kerry’s life at the visitation on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 am. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 10:00 am both will be held at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons Funeral Homes, 7027 Gravois Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63116. Interment following services to Valhalla Cemetery.