Marta Nevampaa Whitlock

Born on February 13, 1943, in Dekalb, Illinois, Marta grew up in Aurora, Illinois, before eventually making Worthington her home for over 50 years.

A lifelong learner, Marta earned her BA from Grinnell College, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Harvard University, and a PhD in History from The Ohio State University. She had a deep love for history, immersing herself in Russian, World War II, and American historical works. Later in life, Marta discovered a passion for binge-watching Netflix series, often grumbling about how her new pastime distracted her from more productive pursuits.

Marta had a rich and varied career, including her pivotal work as the first acquisitions specialist in Women’s History at the Ohio Historical Society during the 1970s. A dedicated volunteer, she lent her time to Inniswood Gardens in the 1980s. Earlier, Marta achieved national acclaim as a member of the 1960 National High School Debate Championship team, alongside Scott Whitlock, who would later become her husband.

They shared a remarkable 66-year partnership, with 58 of those years as a devoted married couple. Together, they raised their daughter, Jessica, who was born in 1977. Marta passed on her love of learning to Jessica and cherished supporting her through life’s challenges. She became a proud and devoted grandmother to her daughter’s fur children, doting on both the family cats and dogs with immense affection.

Marta was a skilled gardener, transforming her 1.7-acre wooded lot into a lush haven. She had a wicked, sly sense of humor, was a tremendously faithful friend, and lived life entirely on her own terms. She could form an opinion in a flash and was unapologetically herself.

She is survived by her loving husband, Scott Whitlock; her daughter, Jessica Whitlock-Schettine; and her son-in-law, Felipe Schettine. She was predeceased by her parents, Eino and Ruth Nevampaa.

Marta and Scott’s love story began on her first day of high school when Scott noticed her in a bright orange sweater her mother had knitted—a color she disliked but one that captured his heart. For him, it was love at first sight, and their bond only grew deeper over the decades. Marta was the smartest and most beautiful woman Scott ever knew, and they were the loves of each other's lives.

Friends are invited to gather at Schoedinger Funeral Home Worthington Chapel on Friday January 10 starting 9:30 am for a light breakfast reception, followed by a program of remembrance at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating a tree to the national forest system in Marta’s name at alivingtribute.org.