Martha Jeanne VanderKraats Sorensen

Robert Harold and Martha Jeanne VanderKraats Sorensen both joined their beloved Savior on Friday, June 30, 2017. Born August 12, 1936, in Winslow, Bob spent his early years caring for his parents. He married Martha in 1970 but made sure his parents were an active part of their life. Marriage brought two children to the 36 year old bachelor, and it wasn’t long before there were two of his own. The family lived a number of places, but Bob finally settled in Sanders. He retired from the Santa Fe Railroad and cared for his ailing parents and he devoted himself to his grandchildren. Robert leaves behind a brother, Gary Sorensen and a sister, Patty Sorensen Doney. Martha never knew a stranger. She touched, moved and inspired every person she connected with. Born in Winslow on August 26, 1942 she became a licensed practical nurse and practiced nursing all her life. However, she eventually stayed home to raise their youngest until going on to study and become a licensed U.S. Postmaster. She loved her job as Postmaster because it brought her joy and connections to her community that has lasted decades. After retiring she took on the task of raising her youngest daughter’s two children. Martha leaves behind two brothers, David and Philip VanderKraats and a sister, Rose VanderKraats Oplinger. This beloved couple is survived by their children, Nancy Ellen (Robert) Goodson Earhart, Charles Rex Goodson, Eric Michael (Chanda) Sorensen and Susan Elizabeth Sorensen, granddaughters, Barbara, Samantha, Amber, Shaylyn, grandsons, Garrett, William, John, Robert and seven great grand-children. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 8, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Valley Baptist Church, Sanders.