Pocatello Cemetery Sexton to retire

Pocatello’s longest-serving employee will retire June 28.

Cemetery Sexton Martin Peace, who has worked for the city for 42 years, began his career in 1976, working part-time in the Cemetery Division. He went full-time in 1977.

“When I started, all burial services were opened and closed using just shovels,” said Martin. “Most of the mowing was also done with walk-behind mowers. We didn’t start using excavators and fully utilizing riding mowers until 1989.”

Peace was promoted to Cemetery Sexton in 1991 and has overseen operations at two Pocatello cemeteries, Mountain View and Restlawn.

Part of his work has also included producing signage for city departments and decals for city vehicles.

“Martin has been an exemplary Cemetery Sexton, employee, and person,” said John Banks, Parks and Recreation Director. “He has always delivered caring, courteous customer service to the community at all times while ensuring that the cemeteries function efficiently and were properly maintained under his direction. Our congratulations to Martin in his well-earned retirement. He will be sorely missed.”

An open house in Martin’s honor is scheduled Friday, June 28 at 1 p.m. in the Pocatello City Council Chambers.