MarthaLee Fenrich

With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of MarthaLee Fenrich, who left this world peacefully in Portage, Michigan, on July 8, 2025. Born on August 6, 1937, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, MarthaLee lived a life rich in love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and faith.

She was raised on Neville Island by her parents, Elva and Howard McCullough, alongside her beloved siblings, Howard Jr. ("Howdy") and Marilyn. A proud graduate of Neville High School, she was a member of a tight-knit class of just 16 students and played clarinet in the school band. MarthaLee remained close with her classmates throughout her life, faithfully attending reunions and cherishing the lifelong bonds they shared.

After high school, she pursued her passion for helping others and earned her RN degree from Ohio Valley General Hospital. She began her career as a nurse but selflessly "retired" to raise her greatest joys-her three sons: Arnold Jr. ("Arnie"), Craig, and Brian.

MarthaLee married the love of her life, Arnold "Arnie" Fenrich, on August 16, 1958. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. After time in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, they settled in Portage, Michigan, in 1967, where she remained for the rest of her life.

She was a devoted member of Lakeland Reformed Church in Vicksburg and an active participant in the Eastern Star. Known for her warm heart and thoughtful spirit, she never missed a birthday and made sure a card was always sent with love.

MarthaLee loved butterflies, hummingbirds, snowmen, and a good scoop of ice cream-but above all, she loved her family. Her life revolved around her boys. She never missed a little league game and was always there with support, comfort, and encouragement. She later returned to work in food service at Portage Public Schools, helping provide for her family and their education with quiet strength and tireless dedication.

Her love of adventure was reflected in many camping trips with dear friends-the Spieldenners, Portingas, and Geerligs-and memorable travels to Europe later in life.

MarthaLee was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Howdy and Marilyn, her niece LeighAnn Williams, her cherished grandchild Philip Fenrich, and is also preceded by two tiny canine companions, Cindy and Cricket, who brought her much joy.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 67 years, Arnie; her sons and daughters-in-law: Arnie Jr. and Christina, Craig and Sandra, Brian and Crystal; five grandchildren: Remy, Matthew, David, Christopher, and Brittany; and four great-grandchildren: Ruby, Gideon, Elliette, and Juliet. 

MarthaLee was, simply put, the best mother anyone could ask for. Her legacy of love, service, and kindness lives on in all who knew her.

In accordance with the family's wishes a time of visiting will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. MarthaLee will be laid to rest with her family at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park in Beaver Falls, PA. 

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign MarthaLee's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Fenrich family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600