from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Kenneth Martin, 71, of Fair Haven, Vt., died June 5, 2014, at his residence, following a long illness.

He was born on June 24, 1942, in Benson, the son of Raymond and Glenna Martin. At an early age, he went to live with Hazel and Julius Mestyan. Mr. Martin married Gale Gilmore on August 31, 1963.

He was employed as a carpenter for several years by Bud Carpenter and Bob Cunningham, and was self-employed as a building contractor for many years in the Fair Haven area.

He was a member of the United States Trotting Association, Saratoga Harness Horsemen’s Association, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and was a past member of the Fair Haven Fire Department.

Mr. Martin’s greatest love of life was his horses. He loved tending to them, racing them and going on the fair circuit with his best friend and horse buddy, his granddaughter, Amanda.

He is survived by his wife, Gale; son, John J.J. (companion, Wendy Maniery); granddaughter, Amanda; Hazel Mestyan; sister, Pat (Richard) Frazier; brothers, Charlie (Mary), Denny (Mary), Steve (Melissa) Mestyan, David (Dale) and Bob Mestyan; sister in-law, Gloria (Don) Perry; brother-in-law, Gary (Sue) Gilmore; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Donny Martin; and Julius Mestyan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Foley Cancer Center at Rutland Regional Medical Center, 160 Allen St., Rutland, VT 05701 and Rutland Area Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice, c/o Rutland Health Foundation, 433 West St., Rutland, VT 05701.