Martha Koch Pennock

She was born December 23, 1910 in Rush Springs, Oklahoma to August Koch and Otillie Petzoldt Koch. Her childhood was spent in Hutchinson, Kansas surrounded by loving relatives. In 1936 she married Lewis Pennock, a civil engineer. They came to Austin in 1936 where they formed many friendships and enjoyed social functions with the Bridge Division of the Highway Department. First United Methodist Church became their church home where she soloed at Vesper Services, was involved in church programs and taught Sunday school. Over the years she volunteered with the Red Cross, PTA, Food Bank, and the Austin State School.

She and her husband worked together to build their home in the Shadowlawn Section of Hyde Park in 1950. They cleared the land, and they did all of their landscaping.

Raising flowers and keeping a lovely yard was one of her primary interests. She was active in the Violet Crown Garden Club and was instrumental in 2000 in seeing that the Austin American-Statesman have a garden section. She was anticipating spring and the changes she would make with her plantings.

She was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, by her sisters Mabel Trowbridge and Ardeen Harrison, and by her son-in-law Robert L. King, II.

She is survived by her son Lewis F. Pennock (wife Elizabeth) of Houston and their children Lewis F. Pennock, Jr. (wife Fiona), and Courtney Pennock; by her daughter Martha Ann King of Houston and children Robert L. King, III (wife Angela) and their children Katherine and Sarah, Heather Freeman (husband Robert) and their children Kaitlyn, Allie and Hailey; and Lillian Beard (husband Ryan) and their children Cooper and Holland. She is also survived by her many dear cousins, nieces and nephews.

A loving and devoted wife and mother she was actively involved in Lewis' and Martha's schooling. She was tireless in seeing that they had chances to explore many interests including scouting, dance, voice, violin, German, public speaking and swimming lessons. She had the gift of hospitality and was a wonderful cook who loved sharing with those she loved.

She was a loving and patient grandmother and great-grandmother. She felt especially blessed to have been able to share happy times with all seven of her great-grandchildren. She had friendships in all age groups and treasured those ties. The many kindnesses given to her in recent years are especially appreciated.

Her family cherishes her memory as a loving, generous mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

All are cordially invited to a graveside service at 2 p.m., April 2, 2011, at Austin Memorial Park on Hancock Drive to be officiated by the Reverend Kathleen Jones. The family requests with gratitude that memorials in her name be directed to First United Methodist Church or to Hospice Austin.