Palo Alto

Martha Stirm passed away in her sleep on June 1, 2025 in Palo Alto, California. She was born on April 18, 1931 in Glendale, California to Jane and Vern Kemmerrer and grew up in the Los Angeles area. She married Glenn Stirm, Jr, on March 12, 1955 at St, Mathew’s Church in San Mateo, California. The two raised their children, Richard G. Stirm and Jan C. Stirm inSan Mateo, CA.

Martha was all about family and always put family first.

First were always Glenn, Richard and Jan. She was ever present for other family members in need, and she and Glenn included so many family members in their family’s vacations while helping others to enjoy soccer camp, houseboating and other activities. She welcomed every new family member with a personalized hand knit holiday stocking. Martha designed and made over 100 unique wooden ornaments that she painted and sent out as the family holiday card each year for many years.

Martha is survived by her children, Rich (and his wife Cecelia), and Jan, and grandchildren Geoffrey and Taylor, as well as beloved nieces, nephews, and Glenn’s sisters, Ginny, Margie, and Nancy, and brothers, Bob and Jay.

She was predeceased by her parents, Jane and Vern Kemmerrer, her sisters, Beverly, Lois, and Leslie, her brother Russ, and Glenn’s sister Carol. Martha will be missed but remembered with much love and gratitude.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local library or volunteer organization. Rich and Jan are planning a celebration of life in fall 2025 in the Bay Area. If you’d like to get in touch about the celebration, email JanStirm@yahoo.com.