Obituary of Martha E. Colindres

COLINDRES, MARTHA E. (July 21, 1930 - October 1, 2016) Passed away Saturday, October 1 at Independence Village of Frankenmuth after a courageous battle with cancer. Age 86. Martha Elaine Thurston was born on July 21, 1930 in Flint, Michigan, to the late Everett and Eleanor (Crane) Thurston. She grew up on the family farm and attended a one room school house in Brant. She married Michael A. Colindres, Jr., on October 25, 1949; he survives her. They were just one month shy of celebrating 67 years together. Martha was a woman of many talents, raising 5 children and acting as secretary for her husband's businesses. In 1975, they opened Frankenmuth Printing& Office Supply which she managed. Martha then became secretary to Jim Shaw, a major fundraiser for the Frankenmuth Historical Association. She also worked for the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce before becoming a special projects coordinator for Promotions Plus and William "Tiny" Zehnder. She painstakingly compiled publications, advertising and photographs into a chronological scrapbook for Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn and Motor Lodge. Upon retirement, she enjoyed spending time gardening, attracting hummingbirds and caring for her grandchildren. Martha is survived by her husband, Michael; her children, Linda (Charles) Svec of Traverse City; Bruce (Vicki) Colindres of Saginaw; Janet (Craig) Paetz of Sanford, and Luci (Anthony) Valone of Frankenmuth; Grandchildren Laura (Paul) Morris of Frankenmuth, Jason Paetz of Birch Run, Adam Paetz of Saginaw; Martha Valone and Michael Valone of Frankenmuth; her brother, Burton (Marion) Thurston and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a daughter, Susan Campeau; granddaughter, Anne Paetz; brother, Arnold Thurston; sister-in-law, Darlene Thurston and several aunts and uncles. Special thanks to Dr. Mark Greenwell and staff; Dr. Matthew Shelson; the staff at Independence Village and Senior Home Solutions; and Jenine at Reverence Health & Hospice for their care over the past year. Pursuant to her wishes, cremation has taken place. A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2016 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Independence Village of Frankenmuth, 255 Mayer Road, Frankenmuth in the Cramer Dining Room. Memorials may be made to Michigan Westie Rescue or the charity of the donor's choice. To sign online guestbook visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com.