Carole Marie Martin, 93-year-old resident of Fairdealing, MO, departed this life Monday, November 4, 2024. She was born on December 20, 1930, in Swartz Creek, MI, to the late Cecil and Winifred Parks.
Carole dedicated her life to serving others, a calling she embraced wholeheartedly, whether she was teaching students at Swartz Creek, MI, later with the Doniphan R-I School District, or working with adults, teaching adult education to help them earn their GED in the early 80s. She had furthered her own education earning a master’s degree. Her commitment to her community extended beyond the classroom. She was a faithful member and devoted caretaker at her church, Pilgrim’s Rest, and she cherished spending time pampering her family, always ensuring they felt loved and supported. Carole’s kindness, wisdom, and warm spirit touched the lives of everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will be remembered by her family, friends, and the many she has influenced throughout her years.
Carole was married to Andrew Sopko, who preceded her in death in 1970. She later married Winfred “Wink” Martin in 1973 who preceded her in death in 2002. She was also preceded by her two brothers, Henry and Richard Parks; sons, Steven and Lawrence Sopko; daughter-in-law, Mari Sopko; stepdaughter, Carla Martin; and stepson, Keith Martin.
Surviving are her children, Patrick Sopko, Kathleen (Douglas) Gabel, Theresa (John) Wheaton, Michael (Teresa) Sopko, and Matthew (Debbie) Sopko; stepdaughter, Marla Martin; daughter-in-law, Mary Frey; and stepdaughter-in-law, Ruth Wertenberger. She also leaves behind 21 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and 19 great-great-grandchildren.
A celebration of Carole’s life will be held at Pilgrims Rest Church on Friday, November 29, 2024, at noon with a private burial at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pilgrim’s Rest Building Fund honoring Carole’s lifelong commitment to helping others.
