Joseph Zan Martin

Lieutenant Colonel, Joseph "Zan" Martin 68, of Rogers passed away Thursday, September 29, 2016. Born June 10, 1948, to Nick and Jimmie Martin of Mena. LTC Martin was married to Karen Roark of Malvern, October 16, 1976. Survivors include his wife, Karen Martin and two children; son, Joseph Martin of Rogers; daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, Alexandria, Joe, Julianna and Joseph Brooks Ferguson of Fayetteville; parents, Gene Nick and Jimmie Martin of Mena; sister, brother-in-law, nephew, and niece, Robin, Tommy, Daniel and Rachel Hixon, of Warner-Robbins, Ga.; mother and father-in-law, Jeanette and Burl Roark of Crystal Springs. LTC Martin first volunteered for service in the Army during the Vietnam conflict with the Air Calvary, 1st Brigade, 7th Division. Upon his return to the states, he graduated from Henderson State College and later enlisted again and built a career in the Army retiring from Ft. Bragg, Special Operations Command in 2003 with Honors, always putting his troops first, following Edmund Burke's quote, "We sleep safely in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would harm us." LTC Martin shared his love of Rugby serving as a player and coach for the Combined Armed Services and Tough Ombres military rugby teams, throughout his life. He started, sponsored and coached the Roger's Blue's youth rugby team, influencing many young men over the years. LTC Martin also earned his APR accreditation from the PRSA and served on the local board. Honorary Pallbearers include: Joseph Zan Martin, Tommy Hixon, Daniel Hixon, Joe Ferguson, Brooks Ferguson, Hunter Alexander, George Meyers, and Danny Cook. LTC Martin will be laid to rest among his brothers in arms at the National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Ark. To sign the online guest book, visit www.mooresfuneralchapel.com.