Martha Helen McCune
Martha Helen “Marty” McCune, 82, passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2026. She was surrounded by her loving family at the hospital. She lived with uncommon strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.
Marty was born in Sabetha, Kansas, to Carl H. and Helen Mae Feek. From her earliest years, she carried the strong work ethic, discipline, and quiet determination that would define her life.
On the first day of freshman registration at the University of Denver, she met the love of her life, Tom McCune. What began that day grew into a four-year courtship and a lifelong partnership. Marty married her perfect mate on June 13, 1966 in Colorado. Together they built a marriage rooted in faith, loyalty, laughter, and shared purpose.
Tom and Marty raised their three beautiful daughters — Suzy, Kathy, and Deedee — in Orono, Minnesota, where their home became a gathering place defined by warmth, hospitality, and high standards. Their longtime home in Pelican Bay, Naples, Florida, was also a treasured part of family life, where sunshine, tennis, boating, beach walks, and deep community friendships enriched the rhythm of their years together.
Marty approached life with remarkable energy and purpose. She believed in doing things well — whether tending her garden, trimming trees, preparing her home for guests, or planning a family gathering. She had a gift for hospitality that transformed ordinary meals into meaningful celebrations. From everyday meals to beautifully orchestrated holiday feasts, she created experiences that nourished both body and soul. For Marty, a meal was never simply food; it was an expression of love.
She was fiercely protective of her family — of their time together, their traditions, and the individual paths of each member. She worked tirelessly to nurture connection and took immense pride in her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren and their spouses.
As “Grandma Marty,” she was incomparable. She possessed the rare ability to see the fullest potential in each of her grandchildren and encouraged them with curiosity, wisdom, and unwavering support. She celebrated their achievements, attended their events, offered guidance, and reminded them of their unique gifts. Her devotion reflected the depth of her character — no one saw more, cared more, or did more for others than Marty.
She is survived by her beloved husband and best friend, Tom; her daughters, Suzy (Kendall), Kathy (Peter), and Deedra (Jason); and her cherished grandchildren: Alex (Morgan), Paige, and Ford; Cale, Nick, and Berit; Allie (Caelan), and Max (engaged to Hannah), along with other extended family members. Her pride in her growing family was boundless.
A loyal friend to many, Marty invested deeply in lasting friendships. She was a tennis fanatic, a beach and sunshine enthusiast, and a spirited fan of all sports and games. She enjoyed mahjong, book club, lively conversation, and even a well-earned bowl of potato chips. Her life was active, intentional, and full.
Marty earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and began her teaching career in Vernal, Utah, later teaching in Orono, Minnesota. Education remained close to her heart throughout her life. Long after her classroom years, she continued to volunteer in nursery and elementary schools, offering her time, encouragement, and steady presence to young children and teachers alike.
Marty’s Christian faith was reflected in her deep commitment to serving others. She gave more than 20,000 hours of volunteer service to Methodist Hospital and devoted years to Habitat for Humanity - not only helping build homes, but also mentoring women and students who lived in them. She also served through Champions For Learning, mentoring young women one-on-one, supporting fellow mentors, recruiting new supporters, and contributing faithfully wherever help was needed. Her dedication was honored on multiple occasions, including the 2021 Glass Slipper Award from Champions For Learning. For Marty, the true reward was never recognition — it was investing in the lives of others and helping shape a stronger future.
Her love of Jesus Christ anchored her in all things. A devoted churchgoer, Sunday school teacher, and committed follower of Christ, Marty lived her beliefs daily — through service, discipline, generosity, and love. She held herself to high standards and brought her very best to everything she did — in her home, in her appearance, in her work, and in her relationships.
Above all, Marty was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud mother-in-law, cherished grandmother, faithful friend, and guiding force. Her legacy is one of strength, hospitality, faithfulness, and enduring love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by the family and friends whose lives she shaped so profoundly.
Anchored in Scripture and confident in Christ, Marty lived with strength and dignity. She approached life with courage and conviction, and she faced its end without fear, believing in the promise of eternal life. Her works — seen in her family, her friendships, and the lives she shaped — now rise up and call her blessed.
A celebration of Marty’s life will be held In Friday May 15, 2026 at 10:00am, with a visitation following at Eagle Brook Church 6125 Maple Grove Parkway, Plymouth, MN 55446.