Martha Sturm

There will be a Christian Mothers Rosary at 4:30pm on Friday at the Funeral Home. Martha Ann Vogel was born August 5, 1919, at Dolton, SD, to parents Frank and Iva (Hooker) Vogel. She grew up and attended school in the Dolton area. After high school and additional education at college, she received her teaching certificate and taught country school for several years. On November 12, 1947, she was united in marriage to Edward Otto Sturm at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Montrose, SD. They set up their long-time residence in the St. James area. The couple farmed southeast of St. James. Farming was a main part of their lives from 1947 until 1977. Martha raised her family of five children and provided support for Ed. In 1977, they retired after health issues with Ed, and they moved into St. James. Martha enjoyed working at Schmidt Bakery for seven years. When her husband Ed passed away in 1994, Martha made a move to Homestead apartments in St. James, where she lived for 16 years surrounded by many close friends and extended family. She would often be found in the commons room enjoying coffee and treats, engaging in a game of cards, or just chatting with friends. Those at Homestead were her life for those years, and it provided a grand environment for her. Thanks to Debbie Schmillen, Homestead's manager with a big heart and a dear friend to Martha. Martha was a very active member of her church, involved for years in Catholic Daughters, church Circle groups and numerous activities at the church. She was past Regent of the Catholic Daughters for three years spending endless hours promoting her faith and providing support to others. She continued Eddie's passion for Twins baseball, listening on the radio and attending games at the Metro Dome. During the last game she attended, she was surprised by a Happy Birthday message flashed on the big screen - the source still a mystery. During her farm years, she would often be found down at the river catching pails full of bullheads that were caught with only her cane pole. Oh, yes, clean and eat 'em was her game plan. Martha loved to attend the local fish fry and chicken dinners (dark meat only!!). Martha lived to be loved by her family, giving direction and support when needed. Her pride and joy were her nine grandchildren. She followed their activities in person and later by phone. Theirs was a special bond. Martha is preceded in death by her husband Ed, son-in-law Bob Wiechmann, and three brothers Frank Jr., Harvey and Bob. She is survived by her children Dianne Wiechmann of Wagner, SD, Terrence (Martha) Sturm of Onalaska, WI, Donna (John) Mikkelson of Boise, ID, Chuck (Karen) Sturm of Zumbrota, Janet (Allen) Finley of Rochester, brothers Dennis (Leona) Vogel of Montrose, SD, E. Paul Vogel of Durham, NC, Gordon Vogel of Tripp, SD, Tom (Ione) Vogel of Vermillion, SD, a sister Eldora Weber of Bridgewater, SD, nine grandchildren, a brother-in-law Ervin Sturm of Fairmont, and a sister-in-law Mildred Dick of Madelia.