Martha Hamilton Stroup

Born June 17, 1924 in Juneau, Alaska to Ike Takisado and Jenny Reny Wallace Takisado. She passed away Dec. 2, 2000 in Marysville, Washington.

In 1944, Martha graduated from Sheldon Jackson High School in Sitka, Alaska. Just after graduation, she married Gilbert J. Hamilton a commercial fisherman and owner/operator of the Motor Vessel ''Tern''. Together they moved to Craig, Alaska to start their new life together. In the early 1950's, Martha and Gilbert were forced to move to Seattle so Martha could receive treatment for polio. Gilbert passed away in 1968. She later married Jerry Gibson, of Seattle, and even after their divorce they remained friends. In 1978 she married Richard S. Stroup together they made their home in Marysville, WA.

Martha is survived by her two sons: Patrick and his wife Constance Hamilton of Waldorf, Maryland and Gilbert J. and his wife Kathleen Hamilton, Jr. of Seattle, WA; her brother Ed and his wife Mary Lee Mercado of Seattle, WA; three sisters: Mary James, Margaret and her husband Patrick Verney and Helen Mercado all of Sitka, Alaska; and four grandchildren: Kecia, Heather, Holly and Megan Hamilton. Many loving nieces, nephews and relatives will also miss her. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gilbert and a brother George Mercado.

Martha was a proficient gardener, her specialty was growing roses. She loved animals especially cats and dogs. Her hobbies included crocheting afghans, reading for pleasure, and traveling to destinations like Acapulco, Hawaii.

Viewing is scheduled from Wednesday 12noon-9:00 p.m., and Thursday. 8:00-11:30 a.m. Funeral services will begin Thursday December 7, 2000 at 12:30pm in the Evergreen-Washelli Chapel 11111 Aurora Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98133.