Martha Emma Danke

Martha Emma Danke was born February 26, 1925 to Julius and Emilie Gatzke of Chicago, Illinois. She was the second youngest of nine children and was the last surviving sibling. On May 11, 1946, she married Francis Danke in Chicago, Illinois and together they celebrated 59 years of marriage. They were blessed with four children. She was a devoted wife, mother and homemaker who opened her home to family and friends as well as many students from Japan who came to know her as their American mother. Martha was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Ontario since 1949.

Martha was preceded in death by her husband Frank and by her son, Daniel Danke. She is survived by 3 children, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren: son David and Linda Danke of Blaine, Washington and their children Jennifer Danke and Gloria (Emilie and Elizabeth), Bran Danke and Christina, Erich Danke and Mara (Lily, Cid and Robin), Paul Danke and Rachel (Isla and Veda), and Rachel Danke (Donna, Patrick and Valerie); daughter Deborah and Richard Vandenberg of Ontario, California and their children Lucas Vandenberg and Jenna (Penelope and Koenrad), Stephen Vandenberg and Shana (Elowen), Heidi Kendall and Brian (Jonah), and Krystyny Vandenberg; daughter Donna and Brad Heinecke of Anaheim, California and their children Mark Heinecke and Scott Heinecke.

A private family graveside service will be held Monday, October 5th, 2020. Draper Mortuary in Ontario is entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of a memorial, the family would encourage you to take a friend to lunch.