Martha F. Graber
09/26/1919 – 10/04/2021
Martha Friesen Graber passed away
peacefully in her sleep on October 4, 2021 at home at age 102. She
was the widow of Eldon W. Graber. They shared 43 years of marriage
together. Born in Turpin, OK, she was the daughter of Gerhard Friesen
and Marie (Schmidt) Friesen. She graduated from Bethel College in
North Newton, KS with a degree in Home Economics.
Martha had many jobs over her lifespan,
many related to child development or academic support at various
Mennonite colleges. She and her husband served with MCC in Nigeria,
Africa also. She was a member of Bethel College Mennonite Church and
participated in AAUW as well as other service organizations. She was
the type of person who was able to see where needs were and stepped
up with solutions, many times serving voluntarily. This led to her
being named Outstanding Older Kansan in 1986, and Outstanding Member
of the Newton Area Retired Teachers Association in 1989 among other
honors.
Martha is survived by 5 children –
James Graber (Mary Fraker), Ken Graber (Patty Torbert), Loel Graber,
Karolyn Graber Cook (Ted) and Marilyn Graber. She also has 11
grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband as well as 2 grandchildren.
The memorial service will be held on
Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 7:00 pm at Bethel College Mennonite
Church. Interment will be later at a private family service. In lieu
of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Mennonite
Foundation.
