Vicky Jo Martell, 68

Vicky Jo Martell (King) passed away on Friday, February 14^th, 2020 in the comfort of her home.  She was 68 years old.  She is survived by her husband Kurt Martell and their children Allison, Bryce and Callie.

Vicky was born on August 15^th, 1951 in Durand Wisconsin to father, Leo King and mother, Norma King (Lampman) who proceeds her in death.  She grew up with her sister Lisa, surrounded by family.  Vicky graduated from Durand High School in 1969.  She attended the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire where she excelled in music and graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Music Education. 

Vicky married Kurt Martell on June 30, 1973. Soon after, Vicky and Kurt settled in Apple Valley where they raised their 3 children.  Vicky stayed home with her children until the mid 80’s when she made the decision to return to Education.     

Vicky was a driven professional with a love of learning.  After teaching elementary music at St. Wenceslaus in New Prague and Montgomery Elementary, Vicky sought out additional schooling achieving 2 Master degrees, Master Degree in Education and Master Degree in Administration, from the University of St. Mary’s. She worked as an administrator for the Triton School District before transitioning back into the classroom as a choral music teacher with Prior Lake-Savage School District.  Her commitment to education and her students was unwavering until her retirement in 2015.   

Vicky was devoted to her family, embracing the titles of Nana, Grandma and Yaya with endless love.  Her grandchildren were the center of her life, loving each for the uniqueness they brought into her world.  She had wanderlust in her heart, traveling whenever possible, taking in the world around her.  Her favorite being Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale Missouri where she enjoyed coffee, looking over the Ozarks. Her spiritual beliefs connected her to friends near and far.  Vicky’s musical ministries touched young and old.  Music was her gift she shared with the world.    

Vicky was diagnosed with Leukemia on November 4^th, 2019.  Over the months that followed, Vicky approached each day with strength and optimism, her grandchildren motivating her every day.  Even on her most taxing and tedious days her personality radiated.  Vicky was a blessing and extraordinary gift. She will be deeply missed by friends and family.

Vicky is survived by her husband of 47 years, Kurt Martell, New Prague; children Allison (Scott) of Elko, Bryce of Crystal, and Callie (Rich) of Apex, North Carolina; grandchildren Ryane, Ian, and Sophia Cowley of Elko, Gryffin Martell of Crystal, and Sullivan and Josephine Podraza; sister Lisa (Kim) Grotjahn; brothers-in-law Bernard (Louise) Martell, Michael (Linda) Martell, Craig (Pat) Martell, Randy Martell and sister-in-law Margaret (Darryl) Paulzine; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on February 29^th at Community of Christ, 5990 134^th Street Court, Apple Valley.  A celebration of life will begin with a gathering at 2:00 pm and a memorial service at 3:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Leukemia Research Foundation, Minnesota Public Radio, and Minnesota Orchestra.