March 25, 1931 — June 5, 2012

Martha Harvey passed quickly but gently with her daughter Lane at her side on June 5, 2012, in Davis. She was 81. Martha had endured cancer for the past couple years, however, its recent resurgence was more than her weakened body could withstand.

Martha had been predeceased by her son Steve, and more recently by her husband Bob. Martha looked forward to joining Bob and Steve in Heaven and had no fear of death.

It can be said of Martha that she was a strongly independent woman, who spoke her mind freely, but who also had a sharp wit, a keen sense of humor, and a knack for bridge. Martha was fiercely devoted to her family and children and her legacy will continue in her grandchildren, whom she loved and enjoyed so much. Her last years were filled with time spent joyfully at events such as graduations, lacrosse games, soccer games, coffee with Kaeley at Nugget, bridge games with her friends, walks with Christina, cooking with Polly, and visits to Santa Barbara to see Lane, or Palm Desert to see Tony and Susan.

Martha Van Emden was born March 25, 1931, in Illinois. She spent much of her youth in Sheboygan, Wis. She attended Grinnell College in Iowa before becoming a stewardess for United Airlines. Martha met and married Robert “Bob” Harvey on May 27, 1954. Eventually, they moved to California where they raised their four children: Polly, Tony, Lane and Steve. Martha’s favorite occupation was as mother and caregiver to her family.

Martha is survived by her children Polly Latow (Jack), Lane Kerkering (Michael) and Tony Harvey (Susan). Martha will truly be missed by her grandchildren Kaeley and Steven Latow, and Emily, Claire and William Harvey. A testament to Martha’s courage is that she visited or spoke to each member of her family before passing. Per Martha’s request, there will not be a public service. Also, per Martha’s request “don’t neglect to spend time together.”

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