Ralph W. Martinsen

Ralph W. Martinsen, 82, of Topeka, formerly of Comfrey, MN, passed away April 27, 2009.

He was born October 16, 1926 in Nogonie, MI, the son of Oscar John and Bernice (Goodchild) Martinsen. He graduated from Menominee High School, MI and received degrees in Education. He served in the United States Army during WW II, stationed in the Philippines. He served as Superintendent of Schools in Elkton and Comfrey, MN.

Mr. Martinsen was a former member of New Hope Lutheran Church, Comfrey, and a current member of Faith Lutheran Church, Topeka.

Ralph married Joyce Frederick on October 13, 1956 in Minneapolis, MN. She survives. Other survivors include his daughters, Cindy Risch (Loren) of Topeka and Judy Martinsen (Jeremy) of Virginia Beach, VA; five grandchildren, Anne, Erin and Drew Risch, Katie Martinsen and Corrie Thwing; his brother, John Martinsen of Minneapolis, MN. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Martinsen.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Thursday, April 30, 2009 at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Ave, Topeka. The casket will be closed. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Topeka. Mr. Martinsen will lie in state after 3 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Comfrey Dollars for Scholars, Comfrey, MN 56019.