Martha A. (Ikonen) Kari

Per Martha’s wishes there are no calling hours, and a graveside gathering for family will be held at a later date. Donations in Martha’s memory may be made to Our Father’s Table, PO Box 2653, Fitchburg MA 01420.



Martha Kari, 92, passed away peacefully at the Sterling Village Nursing Facility on August 17, after a long period of declining health. Prior to moving to Sterling Village in 2020 she resided in Fitchburg for 66 years.

Martha was born in Ylikiiminki, Finland in 1929, emigrating to the United States in 1954.  She was employed as a baker at the Memorial Middle School for many years, retiring in 1994. After retirement she was a long time volunteer for Our Father’s Table feeding ministry. Martha was known for being a soft-spoken, kind person who often shared the bounty of her extensive vegetable and berry garden.

Martha was predeceased by her husband, Jaakko Kari, and her three sisters. She is survived by two sons, Ollie Kari of Northbridge and John Kari of Fitchburg, one daughter, Lisa Owanisian of West Boylston, and five grandchildren.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Sterling Village and Trinity Hospice for their compassionate care during the last months of Martha’s life.