Robert Lee Martz passed away on June 14, 2022. Robert, 91, was born in Lansing, Kan. (called Richardson at that time) on May 13, 1931 to Agnes and Elmer Martz. He was a life-long resident of the area. Robert worked at the GU
Robert worked at the GU Clinic of the VA Center in Leavenworth as a Urological-Surgical Technician until he retired in November 1990.
From the Fall of 1991 until the Fall of 2015, he was the beloved Sacristan, Maintenance and Housekeeping manager at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Lansing. Robert was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and belonged to the National Association of Federal Employees. Robert volunteered every month at the Soup Kitchen in Kansas City, and became known as the “Tray washer.” He made himself available to anyone who needed help. It was not unusual for him to spend 12 straight hours at the church, preparing for the next day’s events or cleaning up from that day. After the new church was built, in fact, a grateful parish named the parish hall, The Robert Lee Martz Hall, a well-deserved honor.
Robert enjoyed traveling. In addition to visiting England with his friend, Francis Gast, Robert went on several European Pilgrimages, including France, Italy and Germany with his friends, Fr. Mike Stubbs and Don and Mary-Theresa Madill. Even though he spoke no foreign languages, he got along with everyone he met, just with his smile and his helpful, loving ways.
Robert met many of the International Officers at Fort Leavenworth and visited them later in Italy, France, and Germany, as well. He was loved and remembered wherever he went. Robert also enjoyed going on the annual Canoe trips sponsored by the church, and was kind, helpful and always entertaining. The youth of the parish loved and respected him, and enjoyed having him on the parish Float trips.
He is survived by his cousin’s wife, Kay Kesler, and many cousins in Missouri and Indiana.
He also leaves behind a parish and town that will never forget the “saint” among them, Mr. Robert Lee Martz.
In lieu of flowers, Robert asked that people donate to the building campaign at St. Francis de Sales Church, Lansing.
The funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. this Saturday, June 18 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Lansing. The visitation will also be at the church, Friday, June 17, 4 to 6 p.m. Rosary at 5:30 p.m.
Arrangements: Belden Larkin Funeral Home.