Marthabell Eisel

Jolla, CA on January 7, 2024, at the incredible age of 102.

Marty was born November 19, 1921, in Kent Ohio. She was welcomed

by her parents Jonathan and LeKe Rieker and her 3 beloved siblings,

John, Betty and Jane. Akron, Ohio was home through her youth and her

degrees in sociology and psychology were earned at the University of

Akron. APer college, Marty moved to Providence, RI where she worked

for the Girl Scouts of America and ultimately became the council’s

executive director.

Marty moved with her husband, Griff to the Chicagoland area aPer

WWII where he was employed as a pilot for United Airlines. They raised

4 children, John, Susan, Kathy and Griff. Her deep faith in God and her

love of family was instilled in each of her children. These values were

reflected by many family members at her 102-birthday celebration.

Marty was a curious adventurer with a passion for travel. She loved to

tell stories of riding in a blimp with her brother. She flew to remote

missionary camps in South America, attended the Paris Air Show and

the space shuttle launch honoring women in space with famous aviator

friend Jerrie Cobb. With her dear friend Allie Okie she boated up the

Mississippi River from Alabama to Minnesota and traveled throughout

the United States and Mexico in a motorhome. Marty remained an avid

reader of books and her favorite daily newspaper allowing her to still

enjoy seeing and learning about the world.

Relationships sustained Marty’s life. She treasured her friendships

including her devoted friend Jill, her Church family, PEO sisters and

many friends at White Sands Retirement Community. A friend reflected,

Marty had a “youthfulness to her approach to life and wisdom in her

perspective.”

Marty readily showed empathy and had a keen sense of humor. With a

twinkle in her eye and a sweet smile you could enjoy a laugh with her

almost any day.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1:30pm,

Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the Congregational Church of La Jolla.

Memorial donations may be made in the name of Marty Eisel and sent

to the Congregational Church of La Jolla, 1216 Cave St., La Jolla, CA

92037