Martha M. Pettibone

November 20, 1932 — May 8, 2026

Kanorado, Kansas

Martha May Pettibone. Photo courtesy of Koons-Russell Funeral Home

Martha May Pettibone, 93, passed away at Wheat Ridge Acres in Goodland, KS on May 8th, 2026. She was born on November 20th, 1932 to August T. Bandel and Viola L. Schorzman in Cheyenne county, KS.

After graduating 8th grade from a country school Martha dedicated her early years to taking care of the elderly and assisting new parents. While working as a waitress at the Stateline Café in Kanorado she met the love of her life, Stanley Pettibone

Martha and Stan were married in 1951 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland, KS and enjoyed 75 years together. To this union they had 3 children: Greg, Jay, and Kim.

After dedicating her days to raising her children and managing the family home-while always having a hot meal waiting for her husband and children at the end of the day!-Martha worked as a janitor at Kanorado School from 1980-1983. Then, for several years Martha and Stan raised pugs, mini schnauzers, and westies.

Martha was a long time member of the Kanorado United Methodist Church and also a member of the Grant Home Makers E.H.U.. In retirement, Martha and Stan loved traveling. Along the way they would take the time to visit relatives and friends.

Martha is survived by her husband, Stanley, her children, Greg (Sally) Pettibone of Kanorado, KS, Jay (Janell) Pettibone of St. Francis, KS, and Kim (John) Morton of Brule, NE, her 7 grandchildren, and her 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, August and Viola, and one brother, Delmer.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and can be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave, Goodland, KS 67735. Online condolences may be shared at www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com.