Martha Karlstad

Martha Mae Karlstad, 79, of Hoffman, Minnesota passed away peacefully on October 12, 2020 at the Bethany on the Lake Nursing Home of Alexandria.

Martha was born November 2, 1940 in San Francisco, California to Donald and Jessie (Fettes) Shennan . She graduated from Petaluma High School and received a degree form Herald Business College.

On September 6, 1958 Martha married Warren Karlstad and together raised their two children. Martha worked many years as a data entry operator and in 1992 retired and moved to Hoffman. She also enjoyed her time working with the D.A.C. in Hoffman.

Painting ceramics and collecting items from across the country brought Martha great joy. She and Warren enjoyed camping in their motorhome and were life-long members of the Loyal Orange Lodge. Martha loved playing the piano and dancing whenever she got the chance. She was a loving mother and grandma and her easy-going spirit will be missed.

She is survived by her children, Terri Howe and Dan (Judy) Karlstad; grandchildren, Tim (Lindsay) Howe, Nikki Howe, Shannen Karlstad-Simpson, Deanna Karlstad, Drew Karlstad , Brittany Swelam and Savanah Ryann; 6 great-grandchildren; siblings, Jack (Judy) Shennan , Alice (Pete) Capovolla , Tom (Kathy) Shennan  and Chuck Shennan and best friend, Loretta Waltz.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Warren and infant brother.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in California.

Erickson-Smith Funeral Home is assisting the family.