Martha Jane (Cooke) Stiller

Martha Jane Stiller, age 87, died suddenly in Stillwater, MN on December 5th, 2023. She had recently received a terminal cancer diagnosis. She was born to Earl and Nell Cooke on September 1st, 1936, in Rochester, MN. She was a double gold medalist and bronze medalist in dance. She was a beloved coach with the Rochester Figure Skating Club and The Northwoods Figure Skating Club. Martha was a long-time coach with the Special Olympics. She touched the lives of numerous skaters over her impressive career. She remained a member of the Christ United Methodist Church in Rochester, MN. She was a long-time member of the Rochester Garden & Flower Club. She was a generous contributor to numerous organizations. Martha had a love for animals and enjoyed watching and feeding the birds. This is something she shared with her two nieces. She had some amazing pets over the years. Some of the more memorable ones included: Moose, Eddie the Pooh, Mandy, Bandit, Polly, and recently Lacey. She was known for welcoming guests and friends with warm cookies and mini cans of Pepsi. She was loved by many and enjoyed visits from her numerous friends.

She was proceeded in death by her father Earl Cooke and her mother Nell Cooke, her brother John Cooke, and her husband Gail Stiller. Martha is survived by her two nieces Lisa Cooke-Miller (Wayne Miller), Elizabeth Cooke (Arturo Galvan), her great nieces Rebecca Galvan, Rachel (Rae) Galvan and her great nephew Daniel Galvan. She recently became a great-great aunt to Rebecca's son Melvin.

A Graveside service will be held at a later date for Martha at the Veteran's Cemetery in Spooner, WI. Those who wish to donate in Martha's name are asked to do so with any of the following organizations: American Cancer Society, The National Police Association, Washburn County Area Humane Society, and Wounded Warriors. These are just a few of the numerous organizations Martha made contributions to over the years. Arrangements are with the Simonet Funeral Home, Stillwater, MN 55082.