Martha Joseph's Obituary
Martha Joseph, age 99 passed away on October 3, 2023 in Harlingen, Texas and is now in peace with the Lord. Martha was born on May 11, 1924 in Pampferhutte, Czech Republic. She was the youngest of eight siblings and grew up in the Bohemian Forest. She was the daughter of Ludwig Karl, the foreman of a lumberjack crew, and mother, Rosalia Karl, the owner of a small grocery store. Martha was a World War II survivor. In 1944 she moved to Rothenburg, Germany where she worked as a waitress. She was drafted into the German Military that same year. After serving in the military for one year she moved to Esslingen, Germany where she worked as a waitress at the Jaeger Haus.
Martha met the “love of her life” Richard Joseph, a young American soldier stationed there. When Richard’s tour of duty ended he and his bride returned to the US. They settled in Fremont, Ohio, Richard’s hometown. Martha quickly learned to speak and write English. In 1957 she obtained her American citizenship. She was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church Ladies Circle and the Policewomen’s Auxiliary. Martha also worked as a “Fashion Two-Twenty Beauty Consultant.” During her retirement years Martha traveled with Richard across the US with the Holiday Rambler Club. She also made many trips back to Germany and the Czech Republic to see family. Martha and Richard settled in Texas in 1987 to be close to their daughter and grandchildren. Martha enjoyed her retirement community. She loved the dances held there, hosted many parties and made many friends. Martha and Richard were also active members of Zion Lutheran Church in Alamo, Texas.
Martha will always be remembered for her baking; German Coffee Cake, German Stollen and her famous German Lebkuchen cookies. Her German “Pork Roast, Sauerkraut and Dumplings” was her most requested meal. Martha was a strong spirit full of vigor and boldness. She left many wonderful memories that will be passed down through her family for many years to come. She will be dearly missed.
She was preceded in death by her husband Richard Joseph, son Charles Joseph, father Ludwig Karl, and mother Rosalia Karl, seven siblings: Ludwig, Alois, Anna, Mary, Rosie, Francie, Louise.
She is survived by her loving daughters: Renate Pealer (Jack), Sandra Silva (Johnnie), Janice Pasch. Her grandchildren: Martha Murphy, Emily Adkins, Christina Silva, Tanya Robelli, Johnnie Silva Jr, and greatgrandchildren: Drake Murphy, Glennis Murphy, Cristian Silva, Carlo Silva, Tyler Robelli, Vince Robelli, John Silva, Joshua Silva, Joseph Silva, Quinn Adkins, Evan Adkins.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 14th at 11am at Zion Lutheran Church in Alamo, Texas.
Aurora Funeral Home Sam Houston of Pharr in in charge of arrangements.
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