Martha (Martel) Rathmann (nee Przybilla) passed away peacefully on Feb 11, 2025, at 96 years of age. As the second youngest of 12 children, she grew up in Makow, Germany. The vast majority of Martha’s life was one full of joy, happiness and love. She was predeceased by her greatest admirer and loving husband, Ewald, in 1991. Martha is survived by her three daughters Nicolle Thompson (Dean), Karen Van Evans (Bill) and Michele Mark (David), as well as grandchildren Brendan Thompson (Nicole), Joshua Thompson (Hannah), Rebecca Mark and great-granddaughter Westney Sterling.

Everyone who knew Martha would certainly characterize her as a wonderfully sweet, kind-hearted and genuinely good person, traits that she exhibited throughout her life to family and friends alike. Martha often talked very fondly of the early 1950s and the times with Ewald in Feldafing Germany. Martha and Ewald were married in 1954 and emigrated to Canada in 1955 where they set down roots, raised their daughters and lived out their lives in Oshawa, Ontario. They hosted many parties at their home and photographic evidence clearly demonstrates the fun and good times that occurred there with their many Canadian and German friends. Little wonder then that some of Martha’s other personality traits included a tendency to speak using a unique “Germish” vocabulary and her predilection to smiling and laughing.

Martha was very family-oriented, returning often to Germany and making significant efforts to visit her immediate family and friends. Back in Canada, Martha cherished and doted over her three girls, dedicating much of her life to them as a stay-at-home Mom. In later years, she exhibited those same tendencies with her more extended family including her grand and great grandchildren whom she visited with at every opportunity. Of course, all of that love and attention was returned in full and without hesitation by her immediate and extended family particularly during her later years of need. Martha’s circle of life has now closed, but she will always be loved and fondly remembered by family, friends and all who knew her.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Thornton Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Centre (1200 Thornton Road N, Oshawa 905-579-6787). The family especially thanks the outstanding staff at Lakeridge Heights Retirement Residence for the kind and compassionate care she received.

In remembrance of Martha, we encourage you to hug those near and dear to you extra tight today. If so inclined, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.