Martha R. Stocker

Martha R. Stocker, 82, of Augusta, passed away on June 21, 2016. We are sad, but comforted to know that her long struggle with Parkinson's Disease is over. Martha was a caring soul with numerous talents that she shared readily.

Martha was born on December 16, 1933, in Bay City, to Eldon & Adeline (Erbel) Jackson. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University. While attending MSU, she met Charles "Charlie" Stocker whom she wed in 1956. They were married for over 59 years.

The couple moved to Battle Creek in 1957. Prior to starting their family, Martha worked as a Field Executive for the Campfire Girls. She also assumed many leadership roles during her long stint with the Girl Scouts Glowing Embers Council. Martha was a teacher at heart and always inspired young girls to reach their potential.

Martha's service to her community reached far and wide. She was a faithful steward for over 50 years as a member of the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek, where she provided Christian education, committee leadership, and charity works. Most notable was her work in several craft and quilting circles, where she used her sewing talents to create unique garments and quilts for those in need. Martha was an avid seamstress, quilter, and weaver. Many other area craft clubs and quilting groups also enjoyed the fruits of her labors.

Her love of history is evident by her many affiliations with state and local societies, including the Battle Creek Historical Society where she served on the Board, the Historical Society of Michigan, and the Mackinac Associates. Martha's decade involvement with the Kimball House Museum provided a platform for her to teach visitors about historical crafts. She shared a deep affinity for genealogy and family stories. Her photography in later years was a testament to this legacy.

Martha is survived by her husband, Charlie; her son Dennis and grandchildren Kate (25) & Will (22) of Berea, OH; her daughter Julia (Randy) Schneider and grandsons Tristan (8) & Jackson (8) of Pinckney, MI; her daughter Laura (Mitch) Bortner and granddaughter Audrey (11) of Holland, MI; and her son John (Meghan McGovern) of Alexandria, VA. She is also survived by her brother E. Peter Jackson of Doylestown, PA, and her sister, Mary (Ronald) Haugen of Mayfield, KY.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 27th from 5-8 pm at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home in Battle Creek. Funeral Services to celebrate Martha's life will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, June 28th at the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek, with burial at Day Cemetery to follow at 2 pm. Memorials may be made to First Congregational Church of Battle Creek or Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.