1962
2026
SCHOTTELKOTTE Martha J., 63, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died surrounded by family on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Creative, magnetic, fierce, loyal, and funny, Martha was many things to many people, and she lived each role with intensity and love.
Martha was curious, always learning and growing. Her career spanned industries – photography, landscaping, family services, career development, caretaking – all tied together by a single thread: instilling confidence and hope. She lived as an artist in her creations and in her way of being. With a foundation in Catholicism, she appreciated traditions across religions and felt closest to God with her animals and in her oasis of a yard. Martha loved music, puzzles, boating, and cheering on the Bengals and Reds. Her daughters were her greatest pride and purpose.
Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Michael A. Bernert; her parents, Albert J. and Virginia L. Schottelkotte; and her stepmother, Elaine Green. She is survived by her daughters, Halie B. Schottelkotte and Annie Laurie S. Bernert; her stepdaughter, Madeline M. Bernert; her son-in-law, Joseph G. Cantrel; and her partner in life and travel, Jim Harsnett. One of twelve siblings, Martha was shaped by the vibrancy of a large family – one that grew through marriage and the neighbors she so deeply cherished.
She lived in the present and for the future, with adventures ahead of her, ideas still forming, and places yet to see. Martha leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, beauty, and courage.
Visitation Tuesday 3–5 p.m. at Geo. H. Rohde & Son Funeral Home, 3183 Linwood Ave., 45208, with 6 p.m. service at First Unitarian Church of Cincinnati, 536 Linton St., 45219. Martha loved colorful flowers.
If anyone would care to send flowers, please call Covent Garden Florist on Salem Avenue at 513-232-4422.
Hugh Malay
January 14, 2026
My lovely cousin Martha was an original. Her passing is as sad as it shocking. I cherish fond memories of the summers swimming in the pool on Pine Glen & the countless holidays our families spent together. They were the best of times. Martha's energy, craziness, and HAIR (oh, the hair) were always in the middle of all the fun. As we got older, I always admired Martha's fearlessness to embark on new adventures. My heart felt condolences to her daughters and siblings. To say Martha will be missed is an understatement.
With Love, Hugh aka "Folgers Man'
Shauna Ryan
January 12, 2026
My heart goes out to you all. Martha was always such a joy to be around, so much love to share and energy to spare. Every interaction I had with her was so kind and sincere. I ran into Martha not too long ago, and she was so happy telling me what everyone was up to, how life was going. She seemed so content just enjoying the moment in time. She was so proud of all you girls. I hope for peace and comfort to reach you each in the days to come
Joanee Behrends Van Pelt
January 12, 2026
Balance is the hardest place to live when your heart knows how fragile tomorrow can be. I wish you peace as you navigate together the path no one wants to walk. Martha was a absolute dear friend to me during our four years at Ursuline Academy...she had just wished me a Happy Birthday on New Year's Eve. I will never forget her.
Meg Heitker
January 11, 2026
Much to everyone’s surprise , Martha and I became friends in high school! We went everywhere together and made up nick names for each other that only we knew. She was at my wedding when I got married 44 years ago . I moved a few hours away but we always kept in touch. When I moved back to Cincinnati 17 years ago we picked up right where we left off.. she was always full of energy and always coming up with some new creative idea. Her girls were truly her pride and joy and I can understand why ! They are great girls ! I will miss her ❤
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Al Thompson
January 10, 2026
Martha was a truly wonderful person in every way possible! I will miss her vibrancy, thoughtfulness, and wonderful perspectives. Knowing her for so many years was a blessing upon my life.
Sr. Phyllis Kemper
January 9, 2026
Martha was one of my favorite homeroom students at Ursuline Academy. She was fun to have in homeroom and had a zest for life, My prayers are with all who loved her so very much. Sr. Phyllis Kemper
Dan Bernert
January 8, 2026
Halie, Maddie & Annie Laurie,
Our hearts go out to you during this very difficult time. Martha was so proud of all of you and loved each of you dearly. You were all the light of her and Michael’s lives. We hope your wonderful memories of your mom will give you some solace in the days ahead. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you!
Love, Danny & Marty
Soo Mullen
January 8, 2026
I just saw the notice of your Homegoingand was stunned. You were always such a Bright Light, and Inspiring, vibrant and creative woman, in anything you were involved in! We had many good times, through our work, and the Cinti. Flower Show. It has just been a couple months since we saw each otherat the hardware store, both laughing at our continued projects and constant ideasYou will be greatly missednever did I think we would both be widowed, with young children, and beginning againMay God Bless your daughters through this difficult time, all will be in Prayers and Heart of Hearts
Charles Ashing
January 8, 2026
I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll always remember her generous spirit and sense of humor. One memory that still makes me smile is when I came back from a fishing trip to Ocean City with a huge haul of yellowfin tuna. She asked if she could invite her family over to grill a few steaks—next thing I knew, the whole family was there and every bit of tuna was gone. That was just who she was: warm, welcoming, and always bringing people together. She will truly be missed.
Trey Frank
January 8, 2026
Sending Aloha and Prayers. Martha you will be missed, the room was always brighter with you in it.
Kim Byrd
January 8, 2026
I'm so sorry for your loss. I met Martha while we were caregivers for Ms.Jean Klump, Martha was a great lady we had many laughs and talks. She talked alot about her family and her dog. I could tell how much she loved her family and how she enjoyed life.
Lisa Harpenau
January 8, 2026
So blessed to have had Martha as my nextdoor neighbor growing up. We were besties growing up and reconnecting a year ago meeting up in Hyde Park for lunch seemed like we never missed a . I know you will be riding horses like we did as children at Red Fox Stables and your love continued into adulthood and now in afterlife. You will be truly missed Martha. Love , Lisa Pembaur Harpenau
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Geo. H. Rohde & Son Funeral Home - Cincinnati3183 Linwood Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45208