Martha Nobles (known to some as, “LA”) was born February 7, 1922 in Toms River, NJ and died January 1, 2012 at Serenity Harbor Adult Family Home (AFH) in Renton, WA.
Martha was the oldest daughter of Nathan and Beatrice Nobles. She grew up in Toms River and graduated with Honors from Toms River High School in 1941. She married Edward T. Tilke in 1943; divorced in 1965 and never remarried. Together, they had four children; Martha, who predeceased her in 1995; Edward, of Melbourne, Florida; John, who predeceased her in 2010; and Margaret (Peggy) Hanson, of Renton, WA. She also considered her son-in-law, James Hanson, to be one of her closest friends, and sons.
Martha had three grandchildren, Mathew and Adam Tilke, of Melbourne, FL, Jason Maida, of Howell, NJ, and one great granddaughter, Ashley Tilke, of Albertville, MN.
Closest family members are her nieces, Betty Jean Dadey, of Lebanon, OR, Natalie Younkin, of Somerset, PA; nephew, James Nobles, of Battle Creek, MI; and nephew, Arthur Nobles, of Forked River, NJ. Over the years, these family members continued to enrich her life beyond measure and helped sustain her to the very end.
Martha moved to Washington State to live with Peggy and Jim on Jim’s birthday in 1995, something he lightheartedly never let her forget. She lived with them for 16 months, and then moved to Renton Villa, an Assisted Living Facility where she stayed for 13 years. She then moved to Highland’s Home AFH and later Serenity Harbor AFH, both in Renton.
Martha was a true delight to all who sought her company and although she suffered from mental illness, she suffered more so from its stigma, as did her children. Although she eventually succumbed to congestive heart failure, she was never heartless, or cruel; never mean, uncaring or unforgiving. Her heart was open to everyone; to those who respected her, and to those who didn’t. To say we will miss her is an understatement.
We are deeply indebted to the many people who over the last 16 years, have helped support us in taking such good care of her. Special thanks to: the Providence ElderPlace Healthcare team, Lorrie and Gary Walker, Jeanne and John Gordon; Hanson family members, Judy and Bill Young; Pastor Larry and the congregation of Renton’s Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Caregivers who provided exceptional care “above and beyond the call of duty” were the many caregivers at Renton Villa; Elenora and Melinda at Serenity Harbor AFH, along with owner, Lora. Bless your hearts!
A memorial service will be held for Martha at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in May when family members are able to attend.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to: Providence ElderPlace, Providence Hospice of Seattle, or Renton Bethlehem Lutheran Church