Surrounded by her loving family and friends, Carol Jean Martin passed away on February 21, 2018 due to complications from a rare and chronic lung condition. She was 70 years old.
On April 16, 1947 in Livingston, MT, Carol was the ninth of ten daughters born to Milton and Agnes (Nelson) Enger. The family moved to Helena in 1958, where Carol graduated from Helena High School in 1964. Carol subsequently earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Western Montana College, a fifth-year degree from University of Washington and a master’s degree in computer education from Lesley College.
Carol loved working with children and was a devoted elementary school teacher for more than 30 years. She taught first grade in Federal Way, Washington for seven years before returning to Helena in 1976 to teach Title 1, kindergarten, first grade and second grade at Broadwater, Jim Darcy, Four Georgians, Ray Bjork, Hawthorne and Smith schools for 24 years. She also spent four years as an educational consultant following her retirement from teaching. Carol then worked part-time for St Paul’s Church until the birth of her first grandson.
Carol married William Thomas “Tom” Martin on June 17, 1978. They soon after welcomed their cherished daughters, Amanda and then Andrea. Tom passed away in 1998. Despite many challenges throughout her life – including Andrea’s battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in high school, the unexpected loss of her husband Tom, the passing of seven sisters, and untimely deaths of several nieces and nephews – Carol’s faith never faltered. She continued to share her calm spirit and kindness with everyone she met.
Anyone who knew Carol also knew she treasured her family and faith above all else. Her all-time favorite role was that of Grandma to grandsons Nelson and Erik and step-grandchildren Sofia and Alexander. Carol had the privilege of helping to raise Nelson and Erik, cultivating a special bond with her two little buddies. She showered her grandchildren with love, sharing stories and building a relationship with Sofia and Alexander, and finding infinite joy in the countless adventures with Nelson and Erik over the years, especially “Grandma Wednesdays.” She also developed a love for traveling and was fortunate to visit Europe through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This spurred her to pursue adventures to Belize, Guatemala, China, Peru, Australia, and cruises to the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera. She was constantly in awe of the natural beauty around her, whether walking on a beach, enjoying the vibrancy of a green forest, watching a sunset over a mountain view or the magic of a rainbow; she would often say that it fed her soul. She also thrived from helping children and watching them learn. She had a wonderful way of connecting with kids and encouraging their hearts.
Carol is survived by her two daughters, Amanda (Jamie) Clark and Andrea (Jesus) Salazar; grandsons, Nelson and Erik Clark; step-grandchildren Alexander and Sofia Salazar; sisters, Doris (Greg) Van Voast and Sharon (Joe) Boyd; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many great friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Agnes and Milton Enger; husband, William “Tom” Martin; sisters, Lorraine Cowie, Mildred Funk, Betty Davis, Gerrie Coplin, Pat Joseph, Shirley Enger and Margie Seidl; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A memorial service celebrating Carol’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 1st at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 512 Logan Street. A reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall of the church.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday March 1, 2018
St. Pauls United Methodist
512 Logan Street
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately follow in the lower level of the church
Thursday March 1, 2018
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
512 Logan Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday March 1, 2018
St. Pauls United Methodist
512 Logan Street
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately follow in the lower level of the church
Thursday March 1, 2018
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
512 Logan Street
Helena, Montana 59601
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Sandi Watkins Smith says
Dear Amanda and Andrea,
I was shocked to hear of your mother’s passing. I had seen her around Christmas time and she said she was ill then. She and I worked together in the school district and received our Master’s from Lesley. I had the educational technology specialist position before she took over. Carol was well respected by the Helena educational community. She was an emotionally strong woman, as you pointed out in her obituary. I am so sorry for your loss and hope the wonderful memories she imparted to her grandchildren and you, her daughters, will sustain you as you grieve her passing.
Susie, Lakeside says
Persevering, lovely, kind, adventuresome, sweet spirit, loyal and trustworthy friend, witty, generous…We will miss her greatly.
It has been said that when one leaves this shore, we must say our good-byes, but there are those waiting on the far shore saying
“Here she comes”! We send her off with tears and grieving…but know she is on the greatest adventure of her life! Good Bye, Enga!
Helen Gonsowski says
So sorry, Amanda, to hear this news. Words cannot express my heartfelt sympathy and condolences for you and your family. May God bless you and yours.
Shelly Owens says
Amanda I am so sorry to hear of this, please know we are here if you need anything. Your mom was an amazing person and will definitely be missed.
Dee Turner says
I’m so sad to learn of Carol’s death. I worked closely with her for a few years at Ray Bjork School, she with her second graders and I as a speech therapist. She always welcomed me in her classroom, and I did much of my work with her kids right in the room. It was a wonderful collaboration! We became lasting friends, we shared the same birthday and we had many long talks in the produce section of Safeway. I admired her adventurous spirit, her resilience when faced with troubles, and her sweet demeanor. I will miss her.
Donnie and Ed Sexton says
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Carol. She taught both of our boys at Ray Bjork. We have wonderful memories of her being so compassionate and caring for our sons, and of course, being an exceptional teacher. Every child whose life she touched was indeed fortunate.
Molly Severtson says
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, Andrea. So much love to you, Jesus, and your entire family.
Joan Bird says
Carol lit up the office at St. Paul’s when she worked there. I always felt her warmth and sincerity, and it was always a pleasure to there because of her. I am sad she has moved on, but trust she will continue to bless those around her wherever she is. My heartfelt condolences to her loved ones.
Doretta Hofland says
There are precious few times in ones life when you find a true soul mate. Carol was mine. We taught together, traveled together, laughed together and cried together. Carol was a loyal and steadfast friend, a devoted mother, doting grandmother and a dedicated teacher. Her wonderful daughters are a testimony to Carol’s love and nurturing. Carol went peacefully, trusting in her Lord. God speed, Carol. You will be missed.
Regan Johnson says
I was fortunate enough to have Mrs. Martin as my second grade teacher at Ray Bjork. I will never forget her kindness and love for teaching. It takes a very special and wonderful person to be a teacher and she no doubt helped shape me in the most positive ways all those years ago. My thoughts go out to her family. I hope you find comfort knowing that Carol lived a life that left this community, and this earth, a better place because she was part of it.
JODI Mattson says
Dear Mandy Andrea and families,
Your mother was the optimal teacher and wonderful, kind person always. Many fond memories of together at school, watching you girls play softball, and all the times that Carole helped me with my computer! God bless you and know that you are thought of today in my heart and always. I sincerely wish I could attend today, so sorry I cannot.
Love and peace to you.
Jodi Mattson. (Mrs Hill from 4-Gs)
Gary says
My condolences to Carol’s family. She was a high school classmate who was really cute, quiet, but always friendly. Her older sister, Sharon may remember me – she worked with my Mother at the Highway Dept. Mom sewed a sequined dress for her in the early ’60’s.
Again, my condolences and best wishes to Carol’s family.
Brie Oliver says
So sorry Andrea and Amanda. Condolences for the loss of your mom. Sending love.
Erica says
So sorry for your loss. I loved Mrs. Martin as my 2nd grade teacher, friend and loving part of our community. Andrea and Mandy , you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Your mother was a special gift in this world who made a difference in so many students lives. Our condolences to you both.
-Erica (Paulson) Frafjord
Kerri Cechovic says
Dear Amanda and Andrea,
I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your Mom. I was fortunate enough to have had Mrs Martin as my 2nd grade teacher at Ray Bjork. She was the most wonderful teacher- so very kind, caring, thoughtful, and encouraging. She made every day full of joy and taught us so many lessons that I will carry with me always. Your Mom had such an amazing impact on so many lives and I’m so grateful for her. My heart is with you and your family.
Jamie Newer says
Dear Amanda and Andrea,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. I am so sorry about your Mom’s passing. She was a sweet loving person and amazing woman. She was a great teacher and mother.
Jamie(Kruger) Newer
Class of 1999 Capital High School