Gifford Leroy Martin

Gifford Leroy Martin, 73, of Oconto, Nebraska, died Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at the University Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He was born November 21, 1943, in Oconto, Nebraska, to Rosco and Lydia Etta (Elston) Martin. Gifford graduated from Oconto High School with the class of 1962. Gifford served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Upon obtaining his honorable discharge he went onto further his education at Kearney State College. He was united in marriage to Leona Blow in 1969, two sons were blessed to this marriage; Stephen and Andrew. Gifford moved with his family to Broken Bow, Nebraska where he was Produce Manager for Safeway and later transferred to Safeway in North Platte, Nebraska. Gifford lived in North Platte until he returned to Oconto in 1981, where he resided until he answered the Lord’s call home. Gifford had several occupations before beginning employment with B-D in Broken Bow where he would work for over 20 years until he retired. During retirement Gifford enjoyed socializing with people as a Wal-Mart Greeter until fully retiring in July 2016. He enjoyed fishing, pheasant hunting, going to watch Andy as he played lead guitar for the band Borderline, and being with the family, especially the grandchildren. In fact, Gifford loved all children. Gifford had a mischievous side to him, and enjoyed a practical joke or two. He had a heart of gold, and would do just about anything to help anyone. His faith was strong, and he was a member of First Church of Nazarene in Cozad until his passing. He is survived by his sons, Stephen Martin of Oconto, Nebraska, Andy (Nilene) Martin of Cedar Bluffs, Nebraska; one brother, Ruben Martin of Overton, Nebraska; one sister, Doris Martin of Callaway, Nebraska; three grandchildren, Levi Martin of Lexington, Nebraska, Zoe Trautman of Cedar Bluffs, Nebraska, and Drew Trautman of Wilber, Nebraska; as well as extended family and friends. Gifford was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral Services will be held Monday, April 10, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. at the Oconto Community Center with Pastor Susan Sukraw officiating. Burial will be in the Oconto Cemetery with full Military Honors. Visitation will be Sunday, April 9, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Chapel in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.