Martha May Skeel

Martha May Skeel (Cook)

November 20, 1952 – February 19, 2026

Born in Petoskey, Michigan, on November 20, 1952, Martha—affectionately nicknamed “Kitten” in her younger years—grew into a woman who was as strong as she was spirited. She worked hard her entire life, loved fiercely, and never hesitated to call things exactly as she saw them. If you knew Martha, you knew where you stood—and you also knew you were loved.

Martha was fiercely loyal and endlessly devoted to her family. She made everyone feel welcome, whether you were a lifelong friend or someone she had just met. She was fun, vibrant, and often the life of the party—always happy, always laughing, and always ready to enjoy the moment. Many will remember evenings spent at the Charlevoix Elk Lodge or Southwoods in Petoskey with her beloved “partner in crime,” Jon Marshall, who survives her.

She is survived by her brother Frank Michael Cook; her sister Nancy Ann Giustra; and her children: Jeffery Michael Skeel; Stacey Skeel Price (Randall Price); David James Skeel; Amanda Skeel; and Geralyn Skeel.

Her legacy lives on in the laughter she inspired, the loyalty she modeled, and the fierce love she gave so freely.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no funeral. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 20, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Ferry Beach in Charlevoix, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bergmann Center, P.O. Box 236, Charlevoix, Michigan.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.