Martha Anderson

Martha E. Anderson, 79, entered into heaven from Hammond Henry Hospital in Geneseo, Illinois on Thursday, February 15, 2024 after a devastating lung disease.  Graveside services will be held at Mellen Township Cemetery in Wallace, Michigan on Monday, May 6, 2024 at 11 a.m. Pastor Allan Peterson will officiate. Donations may be directed to Our Daily Bread, Henry County Humane Society or Geneseo Education Foundation.

Martha Elizabeth Anderson was born on September 25, 1944. She graduated from Stephenson High School in Stephenson, MI in 1962. Martha attended Marinette County Teachers College graduating in 1964. She completed her education to become a teacher at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI graduating in 1966. Martha began her teaching career in First Grade at Stephenson Elementary in Stephenson, MI, where she taught for three years. In 1969, she applied for and found a new teaching position in Geneseo, IL, where she relocated. It was here that she spent 33 years teaching Kindergarten and First Grade impacting the lives of numerous children and inspiring many to become teachers. She developed many deep and lasting friendships as part of her small-town community. She was a charter member of Geneseo Evangelical Free Church and spent over 20 years teaching Sunday School.

Martha loved to travel and took many trips both to sightsee, see family and friends while she was able. She was a very talented knitter, weaver, crocheter, cross stitcher and quilter. Together, she and her housemate, Linda, made well over 200 quilts, many of which were gifted or donated. Martha was also an avid reader. She cheered on the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs sports teams, occasionally attending games. Her favorite sporting events to watch were those of her nieces and nephews as they participated in their chosen sports. She loved her many pets, leaving behind a beloved dog, “Lily Bella.”

Martha gave generously of her time, her talents, and her love. Her heart for others was evident through her love for Jesus and her friends and family. She loved to laugh, enjoyed life and cherished spending time with family. Her creativity, kindness, and love were woven into her relationships with loved ones.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are brothers: Elton (Joyce) Anderson of Lombard, IL, Everett Anderson of Menominee, MI, Paul (Carol) Anderson of Wallace, MI, Sister-in-Law Virginia Anderson of Columbia, SC. Housemate Linda Morrison of Geneseo, IL. Nieces and Nephews: Mary Beth Anderson, Mark Anderson, Stephen Anderson, Blair Anderson, Bruce Anderson, Scott Anderson, Kristopher Anderson, Jennifer Anderson, Heather Anderson Achim, Heidi Anderson Junge and Matthew Anderson. She also had 21 great nieces and nephews.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Anna Durow Anderson of Wallace, MI, sister Alice Anderson of Wallace, MI, brother Edwin Anderson of Columbia, SC, Sister-in-Law Joan Anderson of Menominee, MI, and nephew Brian Anderson of Hudson, WI.