Gillette resident Kenneth A. "Monk" Martinez Sr., 64, died April 14, 2017, at Campbell County Memorial Hospital after a battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends.

Memorial services begin at 5 p.m. Saturday at Jake's Tavern, followed by a benefit dinner and auction. His ashes will be spread in the Black Hills at a later date by his family.

Mr. Martinez was born Feb. 12, 1953, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to his parents, Reggie and Rotha (Leopold) Martinez.

He graduated from Harding County High School in 1971.

Mr. Martinez never married, but spent 20 years with his significant other, JoEllen Flynn.

He lived most of his life in the Black Hills and Wyoming, but also lived in Palmdale, California, and Long Island, New York.

He had worked at various jobs during his lifetime, and driving truck was one of his favorite jobs. When he wasn't working, he was usually helping someone out with something.

Mr. Martinez was very active in local and statewide motorcycle groups in both South Dakota and Wyoming until his death. He was involved with the Sons of the American Legion and was commander in 2011-2012. He also served as a state representative for ABATE for several years.

He served in the National Guard in the 1970s and was very patriotic in all the things that he did.

He also was an avid fan of NASCAR and the New York Jets.

Mr. Martinez was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

He is survived by three sons; a stepdaughter; a grandson; a step-grandson; as well as several cousins, aunts and uncles.