Julia Martinsons

Julia Martinsons, age 95, died on Monday, October 8, 2012 at Kingston Assisted Living. Born in Kuldiga, Latvia, Julia was orphaned at a young age and raised by her older brother. She married August Martinsons at the age of 18 in 1939. As they began their life together, World War II broke out and ravaged Latvia first with German army occupation and later the advance of Russian troops. Escaping to Germany toward the end of the war, August and Julia survived the blitz of Berlin with the hope of returning to Latvia when the war ended. Russian occupation of Latvia prevented a return and they were forced to seek a new life as displaced persons. The family had grown to three with the birth of their daughter, Inara. Through a Lutheran social service agency, they found sponsors who brought them to America in 1950 where they started life again. Later, the family moved to Toledo where August and Julia worked for Kenwood Management Company until their retirement. Julia was a member and officer in a Latvian Literary group that supported authors and artisans and she enjoyed the theater and operas. She and August traveled throughout America and eventually visited Latvia after Russian occupation ended. Julia greatly missed her husband following his death in 2006 and eagerly awaited their reunion. She is survived by her daughter, Inara and family in Latvia. A brief visitation followed by funeral services will be held on October 22, 2012, the date of August and Julia's 77th wedding anniversary. The service will be at 12 noon in the Chapel of Peace at Toledo Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Sylvania. Thanks to Hospice of NW Ohio who eased Julia's last days, to Pastor Katherine and Pastor Lars Olson for their care and support and to the caregivers at Kingston. Hospice of NW Ohio is suggested for donations.