Martha Emelia Baker

January 3,1930 — November 30, 2025

Martha Baker passed into the care of her Lord on November 30, 2025, one month shy of her 96th birthday. Preceding her in death was her beloved husband, William Baker, and her five siblings. She is survived by three children, Edward Baker (Dena), Marjorie Baker Wilkens (Dann), and Sarah Baker; and by five grandchildren, Sam Baker, Alec Wilkens, Claire Wilkens, Iyla Ollinger (Tim) and Josh Ollinger (Rhey).

Martha will be remembered for her loving concern for others, and for being a gifted and inspiring teacher in the classroom and leader of Bible study. She had sparkling eyes, a beautiful, quick smile, and too many friends to be counted. Martha was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, and everyone who met her knew of her deep faith, which she practiced through many acts of generosity and kindness.

Martha was born in Oklahoma in 1930 to Lydia and John Nietschke, and her early life was marked by the devastation of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl. Her family found its way to Lodi, California, in 1937, and became established in the German grape-growing community. Martha left Lodi after high school to pursue her dream of a college degree, graduating from San Jose State College with a bachelor’s degree in 1951.

Martha’s greatest joy was her husband Bill, with whom she shared a rich life and enduring love for 46 years until he passed away in 1999. They met in San Jose when both were new teachers at James Lick High School, and were married in 1952. She and Bill were active members of their community and attended First Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose for more than 40 years. After raising children, Martha taught elementary school in the Alum Rock and Milpitas school districts from 1973 until 1990.

The family wishes to express our deep appreciation for Martha’s friends near and far, who made her feel loved and supported, particularly in her later years. Love is the greatest gift we can give one another, and we thank you for it.

Private burial at Oak Hill Memorial Park in San Jose.

Donations in Martha Baker’s memory may be made to:

Seeds in His Garden:

https://seedsinhisgarden.org

Doctors Without Borders:

https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org