Martha Christine Sturgis, age 69, a longtime resident of Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home in Virginia, Minnesota, on January 21, 2025.
Martha was born on September 19, 1955, in Ely, Minnesota, to Jack E. and Margaret A. (Scott) Koski. As a teenager, she moved with her family to Hoyt Lakes and graduated from Aurora-Hoyt Lakes High School in 1973. That same year, Martha married William (Bill) Sturgis, and together they raised two daughters, Christina and Aimee.
Martha will be fondly remembered for her generosity, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She often spoke proudly of their achievements, sharing photos, and celebrating their milestones with heartfelt gifts and words of encouragement. Martha always had a trip or new adventure planned with her close circle of friends and cherished the opportunity to create new memories. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, Martha found great fulfillment in sharing her faith and hope with others. She devoted much of her life to ministry work, touching the lives of many.
Martha is survived by her daughters, Christina Sturgis of Otsego, MN, and Aimee Sturgis of St. Peters, MO; grandchildren: Jordan (Beth) Bjerke, Alexia (Ted) Swanson, Mikayla Bjerke, Natalia Foszpanczyk, Lily Karr, and Simon Foszpanczyk; great-grandchildren: Gabriella, Kirsikka, Nova, Kaizen, and Torin; the father of her children, William Sturgis; her siblings, Marjorie Ann Thompson and Paul (Gina) Koski; and many beloved friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Patti Lee Koschak; and her brother, Jack W. Koski.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the Range Funeral Home in Virginia, Minnesota, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Virginia, Minnesota.
Martha’s warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.