Dr. Joseph F. Martinak

Dr. Joseph F. Martinak, 83 of Topeka, KS passed away January 19, 2023, surrounded by his family. He joined his loving wife in heaven on her birthday after 22 years apart. He was born June 15, 1939 in Endicott, NY, the son of Joseph and Stella Martinak. He was preceded in death by Jeanine R. Martinak, his wife of 43 years. They had been sweethearts since the ninth grade.

Dr. Martinak was a graduate of Rutgers University where he played football and a graduate of The State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine. He also attended the US Military Academy at West Point.

Throughout his career he was the Director of Emergency Medicine at Charles Wilson Medical Center (Johnson City, New York), Augusta General Hospital (Augusta, Maine), Stormont Vail Medical Center (Topeka, KS), Jeanette District Memorial Hospital (Jeanette, Pennsylvania), and St Francis Medical Center (Topeka, KS). Dr. Martinak also had a private practice from 1978-1980 in Southern Pines, North Carolina.

Dr. Martinak worked in the Emergency Department for Lawrence Memorial Hospital (Lawrence, KS), Memorial Hospital (Topeka, KS), and Immanuel Medical Center (Omaha, Nebraska). He was the Assistant Professor of Surgery at The University of Nebraska School of Medicine and Medical Director of Medicare Part B for the State of Kansas and Nebraska. He most recently worked for Work Fit Occupational Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska before recently moving back to Topeka to retire after 54 Years of practicing medicine.

He was a longtime Thoroughbred Horse Breeder and had many winners at the race track. He also had a passion for flying; receiving his pilot's license and owning his own plane.

He was the father of Debbie Cochran, Missouri, Chris Martinak and Joey Martinak (Tami), Topeka.

He leaves behind 7 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren. He was greatly loved and will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

Due to his wishes, Dr. Martinak was cremated. A private family service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Midland Hospice, 2134 SW Westport Dr, Topeka, KS 66614.