Unruh, Martha A. Penner (1914-1987)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 26 Mar 1987 p. 11

Birth date: 1904

text of obituary:

MARTHA A. UNRUH

Martha A. Unruh, 72, of Bella Vista, Ark., died March 2, 1987, at Concordia Care Center. The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Penner of Mt. Lake, Minn., she was born on June 2, 1914.

She was a graduate of Mt. Lake High School and an active member of Bethel Mennonite Church. She graduated from Bethel College, North Newton, Kan. with a degree in music.

In 1938 she married Earl Unruh, who became president of Sinclair Pipe Line Co., later affiliated with British Petroleum, and became a vice-president of Standard Oil Co.

She shared in her husband's business career and enjoyed traveling with him. Wherever she lived she contributed to the community with her music through singing and directing choirs. She especially enjoyed her home, her children and grandchildren. In 1976 she and her husband retired to Bella Vista, Ark., where she was a member of the Community church, P.E.O., Organetts and Christian Women's Club.

Survivors include her husband, Earl; one son, Steven of Newton, Kan.; two daughters, Bethel Ann Dale of Charlotte, N.C., and Rachel Ruth Wormington of Independence, Kan.; one sister, Elsie Pankratz of Mt. Lake, Minn.; and five grandchildren.

A private burial took place at the Columbarium at Bella Vista Cemetery following cremation and a memorial service at the Bella Vista Community Church, with John Foss officiating.

Transcribed by Ralph Shetler, Oregon