Martha Louise Tatanish

Martha Louise Tatanish, 87 of Smithmill, passed away Saturday October 12, 2019.

Born February 16, 1932 in Philipsburg, she was the daughter of the late Wasco and Anna (Semetosky) Lashinsky.

Martha was a member of St. Barbara’s Polish National Catholic Church, Houtzdale

She was a graduate of Bigler Township High School.

Martha served as past president of the Veterans of Foreign Wars #6321 Ladies Auxiliary, Smithmill,  was elected six terms as the Gulich Township Democratic  Chairperson, past Auditor for the Gulich Township Supervisors, past member of the Madera Archery Club, and past secretary of the Madera High School Alumni Association.

Martha along with her husband owned and operated the A &M Market in Smithmill for 15 years.

She was a bright, witty, and loved to talk politics. She was an active volunteer for many community organizations.

On November 8, 1952 in Maryland she married Alex Tatanish, who preceded her in death on January 17, 2007.

Martha is survived by two daughters; Coleen (Robert) Heim of Hollidaysburg,  Marleen (James) Durfee of Midlothian, VA and a son Alex (Sarah) Tatanish of Harrisburg. 

Also surviving are three grandchildren; Brandon Heim of New York, NY, Lindsey Durfee of Norfolk, VA, Lauren Durfee of Long Island City, NY, and two sisters, Ella Longenecker of Tyrone and Marie Lidgett of Smithmill.

Preceding her in death were her parents,  four sisters; Katherine Barno, Ann Richtscheit, Helen Tutokey, Evelyn Novak and four brothers; Andrew, Frank, Jack, and Paul Lashinsky.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday October 18, 2019 at St. Barbara's PNC Church at 10:00 a.m. with Father Scott Lil as celebrant.

Interment will follow in Beulah Cemetery, Ramey.

Family and friends will be received at the Birger A. Freeberg Funeral Home Inc, Houtzdale on Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Friday from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m.

Father Lil will recite the Prayer of Transfer Friday at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home.

Martha will be fondly remembered as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and loyal friend.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.birgerafreebergfuneralhome.com.