Dean Craig Martin

  Dean C. Martin, 81 of Lexington, NE and Apache Junction, AZ, passed away Saturday April 14, 2018 at his home in Apache Junction.    Dean was born February 25, 1937, in Lexington, Nebraska to Dr.'s George L. and Alice M. (Horn) Martin. He graduated from Lexington High school in 1955, also graduated from Fort Smith Auction School in 1956, and  from Kearney State College in 1959.   While enlisted in the U.S.ARMY he learned radio transmission and turned it into a long-time love for HAM radios. He transferred to the National Guard where he remained until 1965, reaching the rank of E7.   As a young college graduate he taught English at Sumner/Eddyville for 2 years. He then returned to Lexington to open The Martin Company, a real-estate, auctioneer, and insurance company.    He married Deanna Turner of Cozad, NE in 1964, and from this union a daughter Shelley Lynn was born.    Dean began auctioneering by working at the Lexington Sale Barn sorting and taking bids on livestock by the age of 13. Dean loved life, and enjoyed being a member of many organizations including: the first United Methodist church, Eagles, Elks, DeMolay, American Legion, Kearney State College Alumni association, Dawson county board of Realtors, Goldenrod auto club, and the Nebraska auctioneers association, where he served as a board member, president, and also was awarded Nebraska auctioneer of the year in 2007.   He enjoyed spending time with his family and especially enjoyed fixing things with his great- grandson Jaxon, as well as teaching his great-granddaughter Ava how to ride a bike. When he wasn't with family he spent his time visiting with friends, traveling, and dancing as often as possible. He also collected classic cars, coins, and antiques, which led to his specialized auctions.   Dean was preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles, and is survived by his daughter Shelley (Thomas) Bowers of Fairbury, NE; two granddaughters, Ashley (Kenny) Jensby of Kearney, NE, and Anna Bowers of Fairbury, NE, as well as two great- grandchildren, Ava Jensby of Kearney, NE, and Jaxon Saylor of Fairbury, NE   Visitation will be Friday April 27, 2018 from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds -Love Chapel in Lexington.   Services will be Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel with Pastor Duane Russell officiating.   Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery Lexington with Military Honors.   Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.    Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.