Martha "Marty" Ellen Niccum, 74, Upland, passed away peacefully at 8:55 pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, surrounded by family after bravely facing complications from a stroke and Alzheimer's. Marty, as her family and friends knew her, married her soul mate, the love of her life, Charles "Chuck" Niccum, on June 27, 1970. Together, Marty and Chuck were blessed with four children: Sheryl "Sherrie" Niccum, John Niccum, Tom (Jessica) Niccum, and Andy (Carrie) Niccum. They have ten cherished grandchildren: Amelia, Haylee, Elias, Blake, Isaiah, Lucy, Brody, Maya, Xavier, and Ben, each of whom knew her warmth, wisdom, and the comfort of her famous homemade cookies.
Marty and Chuck met and fell in love at Saint Joseph College in Rensselaer, Indiana. Together, they built a life rich in love, faith, and family. Their deep bond was a shining example of commitment and partnership. Marty was a part of the SJC class of 1972 and majored in elementary education. She continued a portion of her education at Northeastern. Marty worked 20-plus years at Wes-Del School Corporation as a teacher's aide in the elementary school and then as the registrar in the high school guidance office.
Marty had a beautiful smile that could light up a room and a gentle, patient demeanor that made everyone feel loved. She was deeply devoted to her family and known for her unwavering support, quiet strength, and genuine kindness. She loved traveling with Chuck, especially their adventures out west, and found joy in life's simple moments, often centered around family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Amelia and Linus Dirksen; sisters, Mary Peterman and Bertha Dirksen; brothers, Richard Dirksen and Gerald Dirksen; father-in-law, Forest Niccum; mother-in-law, Matilda Niccum; brothers-in-law, Roman Peterman, Robert Niccum, and James Niccum; and nephew, Michael Peterman.
Marty's life will be celebrated on Friday, June 27, 2025, with visitation from 9:00 am to 11:00 am followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 325 E. N. A St., Gas City, IN, or St. Johns Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City, IN. Father Kevin Hurley will be officiating with burial following at Jefferson Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church in Gas City.
Marty's gentle soul, steadfast love, and sweet spirit will be missed beyond measure but will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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