Martha Johanna Mittelstrass

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martha. She passed at Andy’s House Hospice Muskoka on Monday, December 11, 2023. She was a beloved wife, mother, Oma, uroma, sister, and tanta, as well as immigrant who embarked on a remarkable journey in pursuit of love and new beginnings. Martha, born on August 20th, 1937, in Hamburg, Germany, boarded a passenger freighter ship at the tender age of 21, bound for Canada to join her beloved Werner.

On December 3rd, 1958, Martha arrived in Montreal, taking her first steps on Canadian soil, and forever changing the course of her life. Becoming a landed immigrant that day marked a pivotal moment in Martha's story. Just seven days later, on December 10th, 1958, she and Werner exchanged vows and embarked on their lifelong journey together. Her beloved Werner, the love of her life, would later pass in 1982.

While still grappling with the language barrier, Martha showcased her determination by securing her first job at Bank of Montreal in downtown Toronto in February 1959. Despite not yet fully grasping the intricacies of English, she fearlessly embraced the challenges that came her way.

This extraordinary woman leaves behind an indelible legacy and will forever occupy a cherished place in the hearts of her family. Martha was the beloved mother of Thomas Mittelstrass (Bonny), Stefan Mittelstrass, and the late Monica Gillan (Jon). Cherished Oma 

of Kaela McKelvey (Charlie), Lisa Gillan, Brandy Gliddon, Erica Cassar (Simon), Andrew Mittelstrass (Adrienne), Abi Williams (Alan), and Phoenix Williams. Uroma of Hadley, and Chase. She also leaves behind her “chosen children” where she lived for the last 12.5 years, Tracy McAra and Marc Anthonyo who went above and beyond. As well as Tracy and Marc’s children. 

Dear sister of Christel Hartmann (Udo) and the late Gunther Thiele (late Martha). Tante to Sabin (Manfred), and Claudia (Michael) and their families all of Germany.

She is also missed by her daughters-in-law Beverley Mittelstrass and Makala Smith and Makala’s parents Stephen and Laura.

Martha exemplified grace and resilience throughout her life. She was very proud of the fact that she was able to manage life on her own for 41 years after her husband’s passing. Her love for her family was matched only by the strength she displayed as she navigated new shores and conquered obstacles. May we always remember this exceptional lady as an inspiration for us all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to Andy’s House Hospice Muskoka or South Muskoka Memorial Hospital.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Andy’s House and South Muskoka Hospital for the wonderful care she received.

A celebration of Martha’s life is being planned for late summer - early fall of 2024 and will be posted here.