Martha B. Palen

Martha B. Palen passed away peacefully in her 99th year on Saturday January 8, 2022, at Canton Christian Home, where she was a resident for the past 5 years. She was born on June 30, 1923, in East Liverpool, Ohio, to the late Walter Lee and Ruth (Brooks) Tillman. Martha grew up in Carrollton, Ohio where she enjoyed life on her grandparents' farm, generating lovely stories she would pass along to her children and grandchildren of a childhood rich in school activities and honors, social engagements (4-H, church choirs), fitting in farm chores (she did not care for collecting the hens' eggs!) and fun pastimes with her three siblings. After graduating from Carrollton High School, Martha moved to Canton to attend Canton Business College where she completed course work in medical office management. Her physician employer, upon his retirement, referred her to a colleague, Dr. Michael T. Palen, whose otolaryngology and ophthalmology practice in downtown Canton was looking for an administrative manager. She accepted the position, and a few years later, Dr. Palen's marriage proposal. Martha and Michael had four children within six years, and the next phase of her life was filled to the brim with homemaking and child rearing, never saying no to any request for volunteering. Her commitments ranged from the elementary school library, which she adored, to unrelenting service as a classroom parent, band parent, bake sale contributor, and PTA member. In addition to school related contributions, Martha was a member of the Medical Society Auxiliary. After their youngest child graduated from college, Martha became a widow upon the sudden loss of her husband in 1982. She managed her loss with a combination of determination, pragmatism, and optimism that defined her approach to life. For the next 34 years, Martha lived independently and fully — enjoying time with family, her gifted gardening abilities, and her renewed love of dogs. A particular highpoint was the birth of her twin grandchildren, whom she adored and spent much time with, traveling often to their home in Massachusetts and sharing Ohio summers in her home. When she was no longer safely able to live independently, Martha moved to the Canton Christian Home at age 93, where she resided comfortably in assisted living and, ultimately, skilled care until the time of her passing. Martha is survived by her daughters, Stephanie Godfrey (Sam) and Patricia Michaels (Pete); grandchildren, Bennett and Olivia Michaels; sister Jean Shane; and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Walter and Ruth Tillman; her husband, Dr. Michael T. Palen; her brothers, Robert Tillman and Norman Tillman; and sons, Mark Palen and John Palen. No services will be held at this time. Interment at North Lawn Cemetery in Canton, Ohio. Memorial Contributions can be made to Friends of Stark Parks (Starkparks.com/Friends)