Martha Thorpe

Martha Surdo Thorpe, formally of Richmond Hts. Ohio, wife of Sheldon Thorpe (deceased), daughter of the late Emily and Joseph Surdo, sister of Ellen Surdo (deceased), and Rosalind Head, (deceased), died on May 12, 2014 while visiting family in Michigan. She is the mother of Sally Rabe (Jim), of Columbus, Ohio, Martin Thorpe of Cleveland, Ohio, and Nancy Kropiewnicki ,(Matt) of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Martha’s five grandchildren include, Brian, Julie, Joe, Shane and Grace.

Martha graduated from Norwood High School, and received degrees from the University of Cincinnati, and the University of Wisconsin. She taught first grade in the Mariemont school system before her marriage. Martha substitute taught while raising her children, then taught first grade at Gross Schechter Day School of Cleveland and Kindergarten at Holy Redeemer School in Cleveland.

Martha painted in watercolors, selling originals privately, and prints at area gift shops and art shows. She also developed Math Manipulatives which were purchased by Innovative Learning Products in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They are now on the market for schools to purchase. And, she wrote books for children, which she published herself and sold as well.

The funeral and memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at 3:00pm at the First Baptist Church, 3630 Fairmount Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44118, where Martha was a member. Those who wish to make a contribution in her name, may make it to the church. Interment at Acacia Cemetery; burial private.