Zelma Martin

On January 29, 2012, Zelma (Young) Martin left family and friends to join the love of her life, Lavon Martin, who passed away in 2000. Their marriage of 68 years began in depression times continued with WWII service in the Navy and a series of company moves with the Kroger Co from Greenville Ohio, to Cleveland, Milwaukee and Madison. In 1963 they came to Madison where Von served as business manager to Bethel Lutheran Church.

Zelma made every home a gracious and hospitable place to entertain their many friends. She actively participated in many church and volunteer programs. Her volunteer service at Oakwood spanned 40 years. Zelma and Von enjoyed travel, visiting every state and some European countries. They loved ballroom dancing and for many years went to a dance club in
Milwaukee. After Von's passing she sold her home and became one of the first residents of The Oaks. There she made many wonderful new friends, participated in activities and continued her volunteer work. Although in fragile health when she was admitted to Hebron, she again graciously welcomed her visitors. Her room looked like home. She loved visiting the gardens, watching birds, animals and growing things. Agrace HospiceCare staff and her caretakers at Hebron Oaks became her friends. They gently cared for her during her last year.

She will be sadly missed by her friends and family, which include her children: Diane Cogswell (Hiram, OH), Jack Martin (Nancy), Madison; her grandchildren: Marty Cogswell (Robbe), Kernersville, NC, Jill Cogswell, Chesterland, OH, Deb Shinkle (Joel), Bellevue, ID, Lori Hanson (Michael), Portland, OR & Michael Martin (Tina) Flagstaff, AZ; great grandchildren: Rachael Cogswell, Raina Hanson, Zachary Martin, Grace Martin and Alysha Rabe. Her life began in Darke Co, Ohio in October of 1910, the daughter of Harry and Goldie Young.

A celebration of her life will be on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 1 pm in the Oakwood West Chapel, 6205 Mineral Point Road, Madison, with interment in Harris Creek Cemetery, Bradford, OH at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to: Bethel Television Ministry or Bethel Horizons ~ 312 Wisconsin Ave, Madison or Agrace HospiceCare 5395 East Cheryl Parkway Fitchburg, WI 53711.