Kenneth Adrian Martin 2/17/1965-8/3/2023

Kenneth Adrian Martin was born on February 17, 1965 to Ora Lee Martin and George Manuel. In his youth, Kenneth attended Wadsworth Elementary and Hyde Park High School as well as auto mechanic school. Ken worked for Chicago Public Schools for over twenty years before early retirement.

Ken began training for bodybuilding as a teenager. The childhood nickname of 'Bear' later referred to the muscle and fury he used to defend his family and loved ones. He was well known for his ability to fix anything with his MacGyver skills. Ken was a craftsman and an artist. He loved loved loved to laugh and make others laugh. Wet willies, Curlie shuffle, and pranks were a small part of his funny bag. Ken would always have a cold beer, naughty joke and a hug for friends and soon to be friends.

Ken was also known as a handsome charmer. He liked dressing sharply, with creased pants, cool shirts, cowboy boots, black fedora and a pair of shades.

Ken deeply regretted the tragedy of losing his children in 1994. He struggled and worked hard to fix his family but didn't fully recover in time. It was 11 years later before he was able to fully reconnect with his children. He was grateful for the opportunity to raise and teach them. Ken shared his faith in Jesus Christ and funny wisdom with his loved ones.

Kenneth was preceded in death by both of his parents, seven siblings, three nephews and his son, Kenneth Martin III. He is mourned by his children Adrianna, Areeann, Kendra and Kenneth Jr; his sisters, Althea and Yolanda; his brothers, Eddie and Chuck; eight grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

"There was a man named Kenneth. He always tried to see the positive side of all things. No challenge scared him and he faced each one head on because he had already been through worse. He held his head up high and lived his life the way he wanted to live." -Kenneth Adrian Martin