Marta Zuka

Zuka, Marta (nee Ozols)
Passed away peacefully September 7, 2016 embraced by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 62 years, Robert, brothers Karl, Peter and sister Anda Velta. Marta was the cherished mother of Ingrida (Michael) Wallace, Inese (Jonathan) Gawrych and Daina (John) Bush. Loving grandmother of Scott (Ann) Seis, Wyatt Seis, Keith Gawrych, Adrienne (Justin) Seipel and Erik Bush. Dear great grandmother of Jayme, Taylor, Andrew, George, Jalen, Nolan and Audrey. Fondly regarded relatives in Canada include niece Ausma (Mark) Clappison and family, as well as nephew Igors Purmalis and his daughter Sandra of Riga, Latvia. Marta’s profound love of family is beyond measure. Marta’s life journey began in Ergli, Latvia on the family farm in 1925. Fleeing the Soviet occupation in 1944, nineteen year old Marta left her homeland never to return. She met Robert in a displaced persons camp near Luebeck, Germany. Blessed with sponsorship from relatives Robert and Natalie Krumins, Marta and Robert immigrated to America in 1949 and lived in Stephenson Michigan, UP. Milwaukee became their home a few years later. Marta and Robert proudly became American citizens in 1957. They resided in St. Francis for over 50 years. Marta and Robert taught us Latvian traditions, language and cooking which strengthened the family’s cultural identity. As one of few working mothers of her day, Marta was employed at A&P Bakery, Lutheran Hospital and retired from Lakeside Manufacturing. For decades Marta was dedicated to the Latvian community through her service to her church, Daugavas Vanagi organization, and the Milwaukee Folk Fair. Upon crossing the Rainbow Bridge, Marta was no doubt happily reunited with beloved pets awaiting her embrace.

Abundant gratitude to Archbishop Lauma Zusevics whose tireless and loving support was of great comfort to Marta and her family. Gratitude also to Southpointe Healthcare Center and Zilber Family Hospice entrusted with her care.

Visitation will be Monday at Wisconsin Memorial Park, Chapel of the Flowers 13235 W. Capitol Dr., from 10AM-11AM with a service at 11AM. Archbishop Lauma Zusevics officiating. Entombment to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Milwaukee Latvian Ev. Lutheran Holy Trinity Church or to the animal shelter of your choice.