"Jeff, Kay, and family, we were saddened to read of Martha's passing. Sending up prayers for comfort for you and the rest of the family. Don and KC Hummel"
In loving memory of
Martha M. Gazaway 07/18/2019
May 17, 1932 - July 18, 2019
Martha Mae Gazaway, 87, of Goodyear, AZ, formerly of Marshalltown, IA, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2019, at Abrazo West Campus Hospital in Goodyear, surrounded by family and friends. Funeral Services will be 1:30 p.m., Saturday, July 27, 2019, at Anderson Funeral Homes, 405 W. Main St. Marshalltown, IA, 50158. Visitation will be an hour prior to the services, 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturday, July 27, 2019, at the funeral home. Interment will be in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens in Marshalltown. Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonfhs.com.
Martha was born May 17, 1932, in Des Moines, IA, to Lester Losee and Martha (Bennett) Losee. The family later moved to Marshalltown where she graduated from High School in 1950. On August 24, 1952, Martha was united in marriage to Lester May. They had two children, Debra and Kevin. Lester preceded Martha in death in 1987. Martha married Charles Gazaway on February 3, 1996. They resided in Marshalltown until 2014 when they moved to Goodyear, AZ. Martha loved spending time with family and friends. She loved playing cards and games when family and friends were together. Martha had a passion for bird watching and nature. She loved doing craft projects, particularly cross stitch, crochet, and was most recently obsessed with Diamond Dotting. Martha and Charles spent many hours travelling the country roads in Iowa, just to see what they could see. They were especially proud of acquiring a motorcycle in their late 60s and doing some cross country travels with Martha's daughter and son-in-law. She loved NASCAR and Arizona Diamondbacks baseball. Martha also loved the time she spent with grand-dogs, Libbi and Matti.
Martha is survived by her daughter, Debra Allen of Litchfield Park, AZ; brothers Ralph (Marge) Losee of Alexandria, MN, and Jon (Marty) Losee of Arizona City, AZ; and many nieces and nephews. She was affectionately known as Fritz by family and friends. She is also survived by stepson Jeff (Kay) Gazaway and his children, Ben and Emily, all from Colorado. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Lester May, son Kevin May, second husband Charles Gazaway, brother Lester K. Losee, sister Karal Potter, and son-in-law Jerry Allen. Martha will be greatly missed by many family members and friends.
Tributes
"Debbie, we are sorry for the loss of your mother, May your memories of time spent together live forever in your heart. Bob and Linda"
"Some of my fondest childhood memories were made during holidays and family gatherings at Fritz's home in Marshalltown with Mom, Grandma and Grandpa and cousins. She had the best gooseberries in her back yard. Will never forget. Rest in peace Aunt Fritz. Randy"
"Debbie, so sorry for the loss of your mother, My prayers for you and your family"
"I have many cherished memories of the many times Melinda & I coming across the street & playing cards with Martha & Charlie & talking about the weather & the happenings of our neighborhood. So many good times & GREAT FRIENDS/ EXTENDED FAMILY! LOVE YOU & GONNA MISS YOU !"
"Debbie, We are so sorry to read of your Mother's passing. I so enjoyed their visits as they drove by our home while I was out working in the yard on South 10th Avenue and South Street. Chuck always teased me about working so hard! They were wonderful neighbors and I miss them so. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Take care. Debbie"
"Deb, Our hearts go out to you, we are so sorry for your loss. We always had a good time when your Mom was around! Her sweet smile was contagious. Gary and Cindy"