Martha L. Murray, 90, of Rochester passed away at 11:17 AM, Friday, September 23 , 2016 at Kosciusko Community Hospital of Warsaw.

On May 23 , 1926, Martha was born in Glen Ellyn, IL.  She was the cherished daughter of William Gladstone and Dollie Ruth Hicken Wheatley. Growing up, she shared her childhood with three sisters and two brothers. With great pride she graduated with the distinction of being Leiter's Ford High School's class of 1944 valedictorian.

With a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse, Martha attended  school at St. Joseph School of Nursing in South Bend.  She earned her degree as a registered nurse June 28 , 1947.  As a nursing professional, Martha served Woodlawn Hospital patients for 21 years, retiring in 1991.

Martha and Arnold Murray were married on August 30 , 1947 in Leiter's Ford. Their union of 59 years produced three beautiful daughters. Over the years two more generations have been added to the family tree, with six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

In the early years Arnold and Martha enjoyed life on Lake Manitou.  She was  accomplished with  water skiing.  Winter brought on snow skiing at Mt. Wawasee or Michigan.  They also enjoyed adventures motorcycling around the Midwest.

With a passion for the outdoors, Martha and Arnold camped out under the star lit skies, anywhere from the Grand Tetons to Southern Indiana.

Gifted with the abilities of extraordinary handiwork, Martha made clothing for her daughters.  She created custom wedding gowns and bridesmaid  gowns for her daughter's weddings.  Over the years she transitioned to crocheting and plastic canvas.  For her family and special friends Martha created many gifts of warmth including quilts.  To relax she enjoyed reading, especially books of mystery and suspense.

Left to cherish Martha's memory are three daughters: Julia Fairchild of South Bend, Delores Cleveland of Atwood, and Renee Servis and husband Michael of Terre Haute; 6 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding Martha in death are her parents; beloved husband Arnold on October 7 , 2006; three sisters: Genevieve St. Clair, Myrtle Wentzel, Barbara Murray; and two brothers: Robert Wheatley and Earl Wheatley.

A gathering and celebration of the life of Mrs. Martha L. Murray  with opportunities to share memories  with her family and friends will be from 4-6 PM on Monday, September 26 , 2016. Private family burial will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.