Martha Jeanne Washington, 63

Martha Jeanne Washington, 63, passed away peacefully, at her home in Anchorage, Alaska, on July 17, 2005, after a courageous battle with cancer. "She will be sorely missed and indelibly loved and remembered in our hearts and souls."

Martha was born on Nov. 23, 1941, in Broadus, to Robert and Mildred (Laurie) Washington. She graduated from Powder River High School, and attended Cosmetology College in Miles City and obtained her license. She met Paul E. Ackerman, and the couple married on Jan. 11, 1964. They had two children.

True to the nature of her independent and adventurous spirit she moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in the spring of 1980. For five years she was employed in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. Prior to and after her employment at Prudhoe Bay, she worked as a beautician for over 40 years.

Martha was an extremely kind, fun loving, generous women, and she was blessed with a large circle of friends. She enjoyed camping trips, baking, crocheting, dancing, music, her dogs, and she was a voracious reader. She especially enjoyed clamming and fishing. Her most prideful catch was a 169 pound halibut.

Her work ethic, bravery, optimism, humor, and forge-ahead spirit touched upon the lives of her extended family and friends. "We are rest assured she is in God's hands, and we will be reunited again."

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mildred Washington; and her younger brother, Michael Scott Washington.

Martha is survived by her two children; her daughter, Janelle Ackerman-Moon; and her son, Adelbert P. Ackerman, both of Columbia Falls; two brothers, J.O. Washington of Broadus, and Robert Washington Jr. of Miles City; two sisters, Charmaine Johnson of Broadus, and Laurie Martin of Cheyenne, Wyo.; her aunt, Marie Taylor, of Shepherd; her uncle, Jack Laurie, of Miles City; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

As per her request and wishes no services will be held. A private cremation was held on July 20 at Evergreen Memorial Chapel in Anchorage.

Gifts in Martha's honor may be made to a memorial of one's choice.

Evergreen Memorial Chapel in Anchorage is caring for Martha's family.