Tuesday, August 19th, 2025
Martha Knapke
Martha L. Knapke, age 72, of Celina, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, August 18, 2025.
She was born on October 7, 1952, in Celina, to the late Clifford and Jesselyn (Archer) Monroe. On May 23, 1980, she married Larry R. Knapke, who survives at their residence.
Martha is also survived by her children, Katie (Chad) Evers of Tampa, Florida, Ashley (Dylan) Luth of Celina, Chris Knapke of St. Marys, and Allison (Andrew) Smith of Celina; eleven cherished grandchildren, Sophia, Kellan, Ellie, Evynn, Jessie, Brynn, Lydia, Audrey, Abe, Griffen, and Mara; and her siblings, Pat Rohler of Celina, Jerry Monroe of Fort Myers, Florida, Jetta (Ed) Mutter of Celina, and Terri (Bob) Shinn of Celina; along with a sister-in-law, Linda Monroe of Celina.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Jim Monroe; two brothers-in-law, Jim Rohler and Mike Costanzo; and a sister-in-law, Theresa Monroe.
She is also survived by her brothers- and sisters-in-law: Cindy (Mike) Shaffer of Celina, Bruce (Vicki) Knapke of Pennsylvania, Doug Knapke of Coldwater, Kris (Al) Wenger of Idaho, and Joan (Jim) Wedd of Celina. Martha also leaves behind her cherished dogs, Otis and Toby, who brought her endless joy, love, and companionship.
A 1971 graduate of Celina High School, Martha went on to attend Patricia Stevens Career College in Toledo. She was employed for many years at the Celina City Schools Education Complex, where she served as an administrative assistant.
Martha was a longtime member of Grand Lake United Methodist Church in Celina and also belonged to the Celina Moose Lodge. She treasured time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, and held a deep love for her friends and pets. She will be remembered as a caring and compassionate woman whose presence will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina, with Rev. Matt Overman officiating. The family will receive friends from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grand Lake United Methodist Church ASP Project.
The Knapke family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, care, and support shown to them during this difficult time.
Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina & St. Marys are honored to serve Martha and her family.
To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.ciscofuneralhome.com or the Cisco Funeral Homes Facebook page.
