Martha K. Lessing

Martha Katherine Gerken Lessing was born on August 7, 1923 in New York City and passed to her rest in Jesus on September 13, 2025 at home in Greenwich, Connecticut. Her parents, John and Katharine Gerken, were German immigrants who arrived in the United States during the late 1800s. Her parents already had an 11-year-old son, Carl, who was just as surprised to have Martha join his family as were her parents.

Martha spent her youth in South Ozone Park, Queens, where her parents owned a grocery store on Rockaway Boulevard. She excelled in school and graduated from PS 45 High School (now Clarence Witherspoon) in 1940.

Martha spent her career as an administrative assistant to prominent corporate executives in Manhattan. She was so essential to their success that one boss requested that she transition with him when he accepted a new position. Her work allowed her to collect and send treasured, exotic postage stamps to her cousin’s three children in California. She served as their godmother and supported their spiritual journeys.

Martha married Erich (Eric) Hans Lessing (1910-1997), a survivor of Nazi persecutions in Austria. They had met during a cruise. So romantic! Eric and Martha enjoyed traveling around the world together. Both loved history and visiting sites which brought history to life.

Those who knew Martha could easily recognize her intelligence, grace, kindness, cheerfulness, positive attitude, and gentle spirit. While clearly knowing exactly where she stood on any issue, she was tactful and reserved (most of the time) during discussions.

Martha loved her community and neighbors in Greenwich. She felt safe and valued. Her pastor and church members were precious to her.

Martha Lessing was predeceased by her parents, brother, and cousin Peter Gerken. She is survived by her cousin, Christine Gerken Neish, of California, her faithful caregiver, Justine Moriffiah, of Greenwich, and many friends.

Martha’s memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, October 16 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 286 Delavan Ave, Greenwich. Pastor Evan Scamman will officiate.