Venema, Martha Ann (Cleveland), age 67, passed peacefully on February 3, 2023, with her loving husband, son and close family by her side at her Eden Prairie home. She was born August 11, 1955 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Wilbur and Evelyn Cleveland, the fourth of their five children.

Martha was a devoted wife, dedicated mother and adored grandmother. She was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. She lit up any room that she entered and was loved by all who knew her. Martha cared deeply about the happiness of others, treasuring time and traditions with family and friends. She worked in accounting, most recently at The Minikahda Club. Martha's love of animals and “giving back” led her to volunteer at Can-Do-Canines assistance dogs. She fostered over 30 dogs-in-training and volunteered at many fundraising events. Her black lab, Ryder, joined the family as a Can-Do-Canines career change dog. Martha’s six-year battle with metastatic breast cancer was an inspiration to all. Many heartfelt thanks to Dr. Kathryn Ruddy and the Oncology Department at Mayo Clinic, Rochester.

Martha was predeceased by her parents, Wilbur and Evelyn, and brother, Alan. She is survived and deeply mourned by her devoted husband of 36 years, Tom; her son Joe Baker (Tracy); her sister Rena and brothers David (Kathy) and Thomas (Kim); her grandchildren Gavin, Sam, Sean and Evan; her stepchildren Cori (Chad), Katie (Darrin) and Greg (Michelle); her nieces, nephews and many other family members and dear friends.

Services will be held on March 2, 2023, at Pax Christi Catholic Community, 12100 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie. Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Lunch will be served at the church following the service. Memorials are preferred to Can-Do-Canines or Mayo Clinic Breast Cancer Research.

Published on February 19, 2023