Kenneth Martin

Kenneth Joseph Martin (Ken), age 35, of Philadelphia; died Sunday, March 1, 2020, due to anoxic brain injury from an asthma attack that led to cardiac arrest 9 days prior.

Ken was born on September 6, 1984, to Kenneth Hirst and Kimberly White (nee Martin) in Philadelphia PA. He graduated from William Tennent High School in 2003 and quickly began a life in music. Ken was in a few bands, but his main one was Rough Justice with his lifelong best friends, Ross, Derek, and Zack. In 2009 Ken started working for Clair Backline as a Backline Technician where he built up his talents and knowledge. In 2010, Ken's band, Rough Justice opened for the Misfits.


Ken lived life the way he wanted and did not let anyone hold him back. In 2011 he would start his new life working for big-name stars such as Snoop Dog, and John Legend. He would become the Backline Technician/Stage Manager for Wiz Khalifa for almost 8 years. Because of these jobs, he got to travel the world and meet people. Ken had a passion for skateboarding, photography, and great tattoos! In 2019, Ken started to build a life with his love, Kim Sui, and their adopted dog, Cooper.

Ken lived life to the fullest and taught others to as well. His impact on this earth will forever stay with all the lives he touched. To say he will be missed, would be the understatement of the century.

Ken is survived by his brothers, Jon Martin (Katelyn) and Walter White, his Aunts Sandy Plunkett (Ed), Debi O'Steen (Paul), his uncles, Mike Martin and Glenn Martin, his many cousins, his nephews, Owen(9), Dylan (2) and nieces, Alexis (6), Samantha (5).

Ken is preceded in death by his grandmother, Janice Martin, and his mother, Kimberly White.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Saturday March 7th from 11 AM to 1 PM at the Slabinski Sucharski Funeral Home 2614 Orthodox Street, Philadelphia, PA. Ken's life celebration will begin at 1 PM and his interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers. We ask that people please make donations to Ken's brothers, Jon Martin or Walter White. They have started an account to help pay Ken's bills for the year so that the love of his life, Kim, can grieve and not have to worry about money. A GoFundMe page has also been set up by the family for this account as well
Ken Martin Memorial

Arrangements by McCafferty Sweeney Slabinski Barnes Funerals and Cremations, John J. Barnes Supervisor, 215-333-0500. Please share your fondest memories of Ken at PhillyFunerals.com