Martha Lucille (Koskan) Kinsley was born September 2, 1918 on a homestead near Naville, SD, to Jerry and Daisy (Slechta) Koskan. At the age of one, she moved with her family to a farm near Wood, SD. She graduated from Springview Country School in 1931, and Wood High School in 1935. She received a teaching certificate from Southern State College and began teaching at the age of 17 in several surrounding schools.
In 1944, she married Sgt. Kenneth Kinsley, making their home on a farm north of Murdo for 45 years. In 1985, she completed her long time goal, receiving her Bachelor of Science degree from Northern State University. She moved into an apartment in Murdo in 1996, and on to Pierre Maryhouse in 2015.
Martha was involved with youth during her teaching years as well as her years with 4-H, church school and library. She was a participant and supporter of various community organizations and was especially involved in serving with the United Methodist Women. She and Ken received a soil conservation award for planting and caring for one of the first tree shelter belts in the area. They were also humbled to be recognized as a Methodist Family of the Year with their young family.
Martha enjoyed all aspects of farming, sewing, gardening, cooking for family and friends, carrying on the tradition that anyone was welcome at the table.
Memorials may be directed to Jones County Ambulance or the Murdo United Methodist Women.
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