Martha was born sixty five years ago in Maryland to William and Mary Shaw. She grew up sailing on the Chesapeake Bay and has enjoyed messing about on boats ever since. She attended University of Maryland, and graduated with a degree in medical technology .
Martha met her husband, Richard, in high school. They were happily married for 44 years. Their son, Kyle, and daughters, Molly, Robin, and Jill brought them much joy. After 14 moves in 18 years, they dropped anchor in Mukilteo, Washington.
Martha was a wonderful mother and an amazing grandma. She delighted in watching her children and nine grandchildren grow and was proud of all of their endeavors. She taught them the values of being resourceful, conscientious, brave and kind.
Martha had a talent for celebrating the small delights of everyday life, but was also excellent at throwing a party. She made countless elaborate birthday cakes and family meals and delighted in celebrating holidays and special occasions with her family. Her family always had a cheerful, loving, and peaceful home to return to in good times as well as in hard times. She was always learning, never daunted by a creative challenge and could sew anything from Christmas stockings to wedding dresses.
In the summer of 2008 she discovered a new passion when she took a Learn to Row class at Lake Union Crew. She embraced the challenge of the sport and the vibrancy of the community. She thrived on the water, and was soon coaching the Learn to Row class herself. Since thirty years as a Navy wife had taught her to fix and mend anything, she naturally became Lake Union Crew’s boatman, keeping the shells, oars and other equipment in tip top condition and everything orderly around the boathouse.
In 2020, Richard and Martha accomplished a lifelong dream when they purchased their own sailboat, Morning Star. In the past few years, they’ve sailed all around the San Juan Islands together with family and their seaworthy dog, Keely.
There will be a private family remembrance at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please enjoy a good meal with your family.
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