Obituary of Martha Croke

Martha Ann Croke, 87, passed away peacefully, at home with her family by her side on March 13, 2022. She was born in Utica, NY on June 5, 1934, and grew up Utica and New Hartford, graduating from New Hartford High School in 1955. She was joined in matrimony to the love of her life, Bernard J. Croke in 1957 and enjoyed 55 years of marriage (an inspiration to all the family) before his passing in 2012. Martha worked many jobs over the years including Markson Furniture, McDonald's, Zayre’s and JCPenney but her first priority was always her family, providing a wonderful life for Bernie and her three children. Martha loved the time she spent talking with all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She treasured her regular Wednesday visits with Lily and Hudson Spinella. “Gigi” was an excellent cook with fantastic Italian specialties, including her annual Easter Cassata pie and Christmas cookies, with many of her recipes being passed on. Martha was petite in stature, but tall in all the qualities she possessed, kindness, caring and patience. Every grandchild marked the day they surpassed Grandma in height making her laugh at that precious moment. She was extremely proud of the family she and Bernie created and loved hearing the latest on all. Martha leaves her children, Michael and wife Sally, of Rock Hill, SC, Steven and wife Donna, of West Granby, CT, Michele Spinella and husband Mark of New Hartford, NY with whom she very happily resided for the last 3 years; grandchildren, Julie Means and husband Ricky of Fort Mill, SC, Karri Lee Hyatt of Rock Hill, SC, Mark Spinella Jr. and wife Jenn of New Hartford, Tina Lathe and husband Wes of Belmont, NC, Jacob Croke and wife Christine Capone of Pelham, NY, and Katy Holoman and wife Fran of Charlotte, NC; great-grandchildren, Jordan, Seth, Mackenzie, Tinsley, Baylee, Jaxson, Lucas, Lily, Matthew, Levi, Thomas, Hudson, Nicholas and Emery with another due shortly; brother, Anthony Montana and wife Tania of Frankfort; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Martha was pre-deceased by her parents Anthony and Mary Salerno Montana, a brother Joseph (Babe) wife Dolores Montana, and her sister Kathleen Giffune. In keeping with Martha’s wishes there will be no calling hours. A mass and family celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements by Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Clinton. The family wishes to thank Hospice and Palliative Care of New Hartford for their guidance and assistance in caring for Martha. Please consider donations to Hospice in Martha’s memory.