Martha Patz, loving wife, caring mother, cherished grandmother, and faithful servant of God, passed from this life into the next on Wednesday, April 10th, at the age of 81.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Tucson, AZ, Martha learned early on that she did not mind being in charge. As she grew up, she found strength and purpose in her relationship with God. Both of these traits would guide her life.
Graduating from the University of Arizona with a B.A. and M.Ed. in elementary education, she went on to have a long career helping students achieve their best through humor, discipline, and enthusiasm. Miss Mettler or Mrs. Patz touched the lives of many students, who let her know they felt loved and motivated.
In 1966 Martha met Doug, a graduate student in physics who was living on the other side of her duplex. They were married in 1967 and their marriage has been an inspiration to their children, providing an example of long-lasting love, care, and respect.
As a mother, Martha was a source of love and wisdom. She raised her boys, Jason and Brian, with grace, instilling in them the values of compassion, integrity, and faith. The home she established was one of laughter, consistency, guidance, and home-cooked meals.
In 1972, she moved to Huntsville, AL with her family where she became a dedicated member of Grace Lutheran Church and School. Martha served on the Grace Lutheran Day School Board, as a school teacher, Bible class teacher, in the church choir, in Ladies of Grace, and she hosted some huge Christmas parties for the church and school.
Outside of church and the classroom, Martha was a hardworking volunteer and community supporter. She was a member of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild, Huntsville Museum of Art Guild, Early Works Society, Huntsville Botanical Garden, Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Foundation, Huntsville Hospital Foundation Millennium Society, Hudson Alpha Foundation, and the National Children’s Advocacy Center.
In her later years, Martha found great joy as a grandmother. Time spent with her grandchildren was cherished, whether it be sharing stories, finding out about their latest love interests, or showering them with unconditional love.
Martha enjoyed socializing with friends and reading. If a gift came from her, it was skillfully chosen and thoughtful. She loved spending time with her family and made the best chocolate chip cookies. She had a mean tennis serve. She would tell it to you like it is and preferred that you do the same for her. She was funny, smart, kept things moving, and energized any room she was in. She was good at pretending not to notice when her grown children and grandchildren snuck candy and cookies from her house.
Martha is survived by her husband, Douglas Patz; her sons, Jason Patz (Melanie) and Brian Patz (Aggie); her five grandchildren Avery, Callie, Ansley, Micah, and Isaac Patz; and her sister-in-law, Sally Mettler.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Caroline Mettler; and her brother Jack Mettler.
Visitation will be Saturday, April 20th at 1 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church with a service at 2:30 p.m. and reception immediately following. A link to watch the service live or recorded can be found below.
Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made to the GraceLand Capital Campaign Fund for Grace Lutheran Church and School or Huntsville Hospital Hospice Family Care.
