Martha Altier 1933-2026

She was born March 9, 1933, in Barberton, the daughter of William and Cecelia Whisler Pfiller.

As a young child, Martha and her family moved to Girard, where she resided for the rest of her life. She was a 1951 graduate of Girard High School and later attended St. Thomas School of Nursing in Akron, graduating in 1954. On Sept. 8, 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, Jack Altier. Together they built a loving home and were blessed with two children, Laura Jo and Kevin.

After graduating from nursing school, Martha began her career working for local pediatrician Dr. Kenneth Hovanic. She later worked in the maternity ward at Northside Hospital in Youngstown.

During that time, she also served as a substitute school nurse for Girard City Schools. In addition to her nursing career, Martha was a hardworking and dedicated businesswoman. She co-owned and operated Willow Creek Banquet Center alongside her husband, Jack. Together, they also successfully owned and operated Type-Rite Enterprises Inc.

Martha loved camping and taking trips to the ocean with her family, creating many cherished memories together.

She was an active member of St. Rose Parish and belonged to both the Girard Junior Women’s Club and the St. Rose Catholic Women’s Club. Martha and Jack also treasured their many friendships, especially with the couples of the Secret Sisters and Brothers Card Club.

She is survived by her daughter, Laura Sobnosky; her son-in-law, Damien Sobnosky; and her granddaughter, Rachel Sobnosky. She also leaves her cousin, Ruthie Lynch of Wadsworth, with whom she shared a close and special bond.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jack Altier (2022); her son, Kevin Altier (1980); her grandson, Kevin Sobnosky (2022); and her sisters-in-law, Rose Altier and Jean Altier, whom she considered sisters.

Martha’s family wishes to thank Buckeye Hospice for their professional care and kindness, as well as Frank and Amy Sobnosky for their unwavering love and support.

Martha will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unwavering devotion to her family.

Her loving presence, strong work ethic and caring heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive relatives and friends 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at Blackstone Funeral Home in Girard, with a funeral Mass to follow at 5:30 p.m. at St. Rose Church in Girard.

Martha will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband and son in Girard City Cemetery.

Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to the family.

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