Martha (Anderson) Peterson passed away on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by family.

Born in Story Center, Iowa on September 17th,1956 to Myron and Betty (Hanson) Anderson, Martha was raised in Hubbard, Iowa alongside her three younger brothers: James, Bobby and David. Martha’s family enjoyed camping and made it a priority to take a two week vacation every summer. As a teenager, Martha enjoyed spending her summers as a lifeguard at the local swimming pool. In high school, she was always proud to see her father lead the school as the principal. Martha formed many meaningful friendships during her school years—friendships she maintained throughout her life.

After graduating from Hubbard High School in 1975, Martha continued her education at Ellsworth Community College where she earned her associates degree. While in Iowa Falls, she met a wrestler named Ron who would soon become her best friend and eventually her life partner.

Martha and Ron were united in marriage on August 6, 1977, at the Lutheran Church in Hubbard, just six weeks after the passing of Martha’s father. They began their life together in Webster City, where Martha worked at Pamida to support Ron as he finished up classes at Iowa Central. They then moved to Storm Lake where she continued working at Pamida, while Ron completed his studies at Buena Vista University. The young couple then moved to Clarksville, where they welcomed their two daughters, Traci in 1982 and Kris in 1985. Martha devoted herself to raising their daughters and later began working at Bremwood Residential Services once they were both in school.

In 1992, the family relocated to Swisher, where Martha worked as a special education associate at Cedar Rapids Prairie High School. In 1995, they settled in Indianola, where she continued her work at Indianola High School for more than twenty years. Martha’s dedication left a lasting impact on the many students and colleagues whose lives she touched.

Following retirement, Martha and Ron traveled often. Of all the places they went, the beautiful Rocky Mountains were her favorite. At home, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading a good book, savoring a quiet cup of black coffee, or relaxing on the deck with a glass of wine while listening to music by the Eagles, Tom Petty, Florida Georgia Line, or Brett Young (to name a few). Together, Martha and Ron rarely passed up the opportunity to attend a concert and share good music with good company.

Family was always Martha’s number one priority. Nothing in this world brought her greater joy than her six grandchildren. The kids spent a lot of time at Grandma’s house! She treasured time spent with them—whether it was sleepovers, trips to the library, crafting, singing karaoke or making malts. She was a constant presence at their activities and milestones, always cheering them on with pride and love.

Martha was preceded in death by her father, Myron Anderson; nephew, Tayler Anderson; infant grandson, Zachary Brewer; sisters-in-law, Patty Peterson, Lynn Fisher, Joanie Hammond; and brother-in-law, Norman “Pooker” Peterson.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Ron; mother, Betty; daughters, Traci (Chad) Brewer and Kris (Christopher) Birkland; grandchildren, Anderson Capps, Tate Brewer, Laikyn Brewer, Adeline Birkland, Amelia Birkland, and Nicolas Birkland; brothers, James Anderson, Bobby Anderson, and David (Jane) Anderson; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Connie Banta, Robert (Carolyn) Peterson, Sally Peterson, Larry (Nancy) Peterson, Arlen Peterson, Phyllis (Perry) Barkey, Dennis Peterson, Lori Halverson, Renee (Kerry) Treinen, and Kent (Mary) Peterson. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Martha is remembered by many for her kindness. She was never a showy person, but she always showed up for people when they needed her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Indianola Public Library or the Kiya Koda Humane Society.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola.