Martha Monke, 79, Dickinson, died Monday, September 3, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Health Center, Dickinson. Funeral services for Martha will be at 11 a.m., Friday, September 7, 2012 at St. John Evan. Lutheran Church, Dickinson, with Rev. Lisa Lewton officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Ladbury Funeral Service with a prayer service at 5:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.
Martha Igard was born March 15, 1933 to John and Ella (Swenning) Igard on the family farm near Regent. Upon graduating from Gladstone High School, Martha married Rufus Monke at Mott on July 27, 1951. Together they farmed near Regent where their son Del Rein was born on Sept.7, 1952. After leaving the farming life Rufus took jobs with S&L Company and they lived in Dickinson, Casper, Wyo., and Robinsdale, Minn. Martha and Rufus then purchased Lindy Winky Bootery in Dickinson which they owned and operated for nearly 30 years. Martha took great pride in owning a shoe store that served all ages, infant to adult, and they took great pride in their desire and ability to properly fit shoes for all of their customers. After retiring from the retail business, Martha worked part-time for Wanner Western Wear. Several years after the death of Rufus, Martha married Elmer Monke.
Martha enjoyed wood carving, crocheting, and home decorating. She was a member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Women’s Service Committee, WELCA, and Elks Lodge 1137.
Martha is survived by two sisters, Evon Praus, Dickinson and Bertha (Oscar) Klein, Mott; one brother, Vernon J. Igard, Dickinson and her special friend Palmer Nelson, Dickinson; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, Rufus and Elmer, and one son, Del. In lieu of flowers the family requests that a memorial be given in Martha’s name to the charity of their choice.
