Passed away on August 31, 2007.

Born on March 14, 1916 in a Swedish farming community in McPherson, Kansas, the family moved to the Seattle area in the early 1900's. Martha with a clearly visible talent for music began a long career of study, performance and education. As a gifted pianist she studied in New York and was set to tour in Europe just prior to the onset of World War II. As that was postponed she returned to Seattle, met a Navy seaman (Armand Colang), married and eventually settled in Seattle at the end of the War. She taught and performed in the Seattle area, training many young people and helping them with scholarship opportunities. Whether playing for Seattle Opera previews, working with Ladies Musical or joining colleagues every summer for over 20 years in Daniel Pollack's master class workshops- she shared her love, knowledge and passion for music.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years Armand Colang, daughters Ann Petersen (Robert) and Lee Buxton (Larry) 2 Grandchildren, Armand Petersen and Kirsten Cadot, and 4 great grandchildren, Xavier and Chanelle Cadot and Kelsey and Bryce Petersen

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2007 at Providence Mt. St. Vincent, 4831 35th Ave. SW, Seattle 91826. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Martha's memory to Providence Mt. St. Vincent Foundation. Arrangements made by People's Memorial Funeral Cooperative.