Martha Jane "Marty" Kelpsas

Martha Jane "Marty" Kelpsas, of Antigo, died at her home on Saturday, October 12, 2013 under the care of her family and LeRoyer Hospice. She was 77 years old. She was born August 31, 1936 in Elton, daughter of the late Newt and Eva (Jones) Powell. She married Ralph Kelpsas on Feb. 15, 1958 in Chicago. He survives. Mrs. Kelpsas was a graduate of White Lake High School, and a former resident of Elton, Chicago, Rhinelander, Tomahawk, and Summit Lake. She was employed by Motorola after high school, and later she operated Kelpsas Grocery in Cicero, IL. She also operated a laundry business in Rhinelander, and worked as a childcare provider. She was a faithful member of Faith Center Church of God, and she loved her family and church above all else. She had a giving spirit, and she helped her family and anyone who was in need. Her house was the family gathering place for holidays. She served as operation director of the Operation Compassion Food Pantry. She liked having fun, and dancing with Ralph. Their favorite dance was the jitterbug. She also enjoyed bowling. In addition to her husband, Ralph, survivors include 2 daughters, Linda Ojutkangas of Antigo, and Diana (Jamie) Downing of Antigo; 2 sisters, Carol O'Meara of Antigo, and Donna (Wayne) LaPage of Antigo; 2 brothers, Ken (Carol) Powell of Iron Mountain, MI, and Gary (Connie) Powell of Antigo; 5 grandchildren, Jennifer (Merlyn) Catron of Nashville, TN, Jessica Esch of Nashville, TN, Aimee Skidmore of Antigo, Daniel James Kelpsas of Antigo, and Erica Downing of Antigo; and a great-granddaughter, Cassidy Lucas of Antigo. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by 3 infant children, Maria, Ralph, and Daniel; 2 sisters, Dulcia Robinson, and Lola Olson; 4 brothers, Jim Powell, Cliff Powell, Thomas Powell, and Johnny Powell, who died as an infant. A funeral service will take place at noon on Tuesday, October 15 at Faith Center Church of God in Antigo, with Pastor Danny Pyeatt officiating. Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. until the time of services Tuesday at the church. Burial will follow the service at Church on the Hill Cemetery in Elton. A memorial will be established in her name.