Edmund “Ed” Francis Martinez, 91, passed away November 25, 2025 surrounded by his children at Clara Barton Hospital, in Hoisington, Kansas. He was born in San Luis, Colorado to Frank and Jemma (Bellino) Martinez. He graduated from Marysville High School and Kansas State University. Ed married Patricia Lousie Cilek on May 29, 1955 in Hutchinson, Kansas. She passed away September 4, 1998.

Ed served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. After his service in the Army and graduation from Kansas State University he worked for the Food and Drug Administration in the Kansas City and St. Louis area. He found a career as an entomologist for the State of Kansas in 1963 until his retirement in 1998. Ed deeply loved the outdoors and found joy in hunting, fishing, hiking, scuba diving, and traveling the world. More than anything, though, he loved his family. Throughout his life, Ed looked for opportunities to serve and mentor younger generations. He was a proud Boy Scout in his youth and later earned the distinguished Silver Beaver Award as an adult. His commitment to scouting ran deep. He completed 27 trips to Philmont Boy Scout Ranch and Charles L. Sommers Northern Adventures, and served as an Explorer Scout, an Explorer Leader, and a Boy Scout Leader. Ed also taught life-saving classes at Barton County Community College, ensuring future generations were equipped with critical skills. Ed’s passion for animals and agriculture led him to become involved as a 4-H Leader, where he guided and encouraged young members. He cherished hunting at Cheyenne Bottoms and later became involved with bird banding, capturing the beauty of wildlife through his lens. His photography and videography of bird life earned him the Audubon Award, a recognition he was truly proud of. For his service to our country, Ed was honored with a Quilt of Valor, a symbol of gratitude and respect for his sacrifice and commitment.

Survivors include son, James R. Martinez and his wife Christine of Great Bend; daughters Mary Berglund and her husband Elden of Eagle Nest, NM, Kathryn Martinez of Great Bend; sister Nedra Clark of Makakilo, Hawaii; grandchildren, Jeremy (Judy) Herren, Jennifer (Kevin) Feuquay, Kim (Zach) Dieckmann, Justin (Sonette) Herren, Kimo Martinez, Lehua Martinez, Rebecca Patterson, Melissa Patterson, Dewayne Patterson, Jr., Patricia (Geddy) Patterson and Amanda (Ben) Browning; and 36 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife; brother, Kenneth Martinez; sister Kathry Close; granddaughter Mikiala Martinez and great-grandson, Noah Browning.

Per Ed’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Services are pending at this time with Bryant Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Clara Barton Foundation, Cheyenne Bottoms Education Center or Philmont Scout Ranch, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, Ks 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 29, 2025