July 8, 1932 — Jan. 26, 2016

Martha (Funk) Mennucci, 83, formerly of South Bend, passed away on Jan. 26th in Niles, Michigan, after a long illness.

Martha was born to the late Leland and Helen (Pierson) Funk in Niles, Michigan. Her childhood was spent in Niles and Diamond Lake, Cassopolis, Michigan. She graduated from Niles High School in 1950 and earned a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1954. After graduation, Martha married Don C. Mennucci on August 14, 1954. They briefly lived in Dugway, Utah, where Don was stationed with the Army. Upon his discharge, they settled in South Bend, Indiana in 1955.

Martha taught elementary education for 30+ years with South Bend Community Schools. She primarily taught first grade at Colfax, Maple Lane and Eggleston elementary schools. She earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University in 1970. She was a beloved teacher to many students throughout the years.

Martha was preceded in death by her husband Don in 2010, and her son David in 1977. She is survived by her son, Michael (Susan) Mennucci of St. Joseph, Michigan, daughter Marsha (Michael) Gallichio of Arlington, Texas, and daughter Diane (Alan) Amling of Marietta, Georgia, and four grandchildren, Samantha, Alexandra, Jack and Sydney. She was predeceased by her siblings Lee, Don, Ellen and Joe Funk.

The family will receive visitors at The Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 31. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 1 at St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 North Ironwood Drive, South Bend, where Martha was a longtime member. Interment will be at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park in Granger.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church or to The Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011. Online condolences to the Mennucci family may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.