Martha Gronemeier Williams

Martha Gronemeier Williams

June 3, 1935 - May 27, 2024

VENICE, Florida - After a well lived life, Martha Gronemeier Williams left this earth peacefully with her beloved husband David at her side, on May 27, 2024.

Martha was born in Bloomington-Normal, IL, to Franklin and Mildred Gronemeier, the eldest of six children. She attended Price School, a one-room schoolhouse, from first through eighth grade and grew up next door to her grandparents. Martha graduated from Bloomington High School where she met her high school sweetheart, David Williams, her husband of 67 years. She graduated from Illinois State University in 1958 with a major in music education.

Martha and Dave raised their family in Crystal Lake, IL, where she worked as a mother, teacher and tennis club manager. In retirement they lived in Poncha Springs, CO, and Venice, FL. Martha loved RV adventures, world travel, and was dedicated to maintaining her connections with extended family and dear friends over many decades. She was an accomplished fiber artist who designed and crafted unique, one-of-a-kind baskets. Martha was an avid reader and loved line dancing. She also loved dogs.

She is survived by her husband, David; daughters: Karin Williams (Michael Hanauer), Amy (Tom) Frei, Ann (Will) Longtain; grandchildren: Joby Elliott (Cree Myers), Ryan Hanauer, Shay (Marieke) Longtain, Aidan Longtain, Allie Frei, Celia Frei; great-granddaughter, Suzanna Longtain; sisters: Theresa (Merle) Garvis and Nancy Aldridge; brothers: Dale (Temetra) Gronemeier and David (Cathy) Gronemeier; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Lyle Gronemeier.

A Celebration of Life and memorial service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Venice on October 19.