Martha Decker

Martha Jane Decker, born on November 5, 1932, in Monroe County, Iowa, to John H. and Sarah Martin, lived a life filled with love, laughter, creativity, and family. Her journey took her early on to a farm near Millersburg, Iowa, where she grew up and attended school, planting the roots of her lifelong love for home and community.

On July 29, 1950, she married the love of her life, Milford “Mid” Decker, in Sigourney. Together, they built a life in Hayesville and raised three children: Gerald, Anne, and Leland. Their 71-year marriage was filled with adventure, shared hobbies, and unwavering devotion. Whether they were hunting, fishing, boating, or camping at Lake Rathbun, Martha and Mid made the most of every moment together, especially with their growing family.

Martha’s talents were many—she had a gift for making the everyday special. From her delicious baked goods to her beautifully crafted ceramics and hand-sewn projects, she generously shared her creativity. As the longtime food supervisor at the Sigourney Care Center, she not only nourished others with meals but with kindness and care.

Family was everything to Martha. She was a proud and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and even great-great-grandmother. Her home was always open, her hugs always warm, and her cookie jar never empty. She poured love into every generation, creating traditions and memories that will live on for years to come.

Martha is survived by her daughter, Anne (Don) Arduser, and son, Leland (Tammy Brown) Decker; her cherished grandchildren: Jennifer (Dan) Nuss, Jessi (Cory) Silver, Amber (William Droz) Copeland, Tiffany (Jen) Decker, Allie Lacey, and Andrew Decker.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren: Peyton and Madison (Dawson A. and Mila) Crawford, Carson and Cienna (Hudson) Crawford, and Mason Harter; Maddie Greiner and Abel Copeland, Braylee and Gracie Silver; Landry, Mac, and Isabella Decker.

She is also survived by two of her seven siblings, Louis and Harlan Martin.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her beloved husband, Mid; infant son, Gerald; grandsons, Christopher Arduser and Andy Harter; great-grandson, Dawson P. Crawford; and siblings Raymond and Wayne Martin, Anne Grimm, Edith Morrow, and Lorna Levins.

According to Martha’s wishes, she has been cremated. A celebration of her life will be held at her daughter’s home in Hayesville, Iowa, on Sunday, October 12 from 1:00-3:00. There will be a later interment at East Cemetery in Sigourney.

Martha lived a life rich with purpose and joy—and those who knew her will remember her warm heart, strong spirit, and the legacy of love she leaves behind.