Armi Martensson, 72, passed away unexpectedly from pulmonary cardiac arrest in the early morning hours of June 3 in Chapala.
She was born on May 5, 1940 in Finland. Due to the dangers of World War II, Martensson and her siblings were for their own safety split up and sent to Sweden, where she spent her first years in an orphanage. From there they were taken to foster families in different parts of Sweden.
Unfortunately, Armi was never able to return to her Finnish birth family, but did manage to visit them on several occasions after she became an adult. She spent the majority of her life in Sweden, where she married and had a family.
After her husband’s death in 1997, Armi moved to the United States to be with her daughters and grandson. When the whole family went RVing in Mexico, she became captivated by the Lake Chapala area’s beautiful scenery, wonderful climate and friendly people.
A caring, unselfish person who always put others first, Armi wanted the best for everybody she came in contact with, and would without hesitation help out wherever she was needed. She was very concerned about animal welfare, and passionately interested in politics. She was always ready for a debate about fairness and equality for all. In Armi’s view, there were no race, gender or other issues – only people issues.
At the time of her death, Armi was getting ready to leave her temporary residence in Chapala in August, to once again be with her family.
Armi is survived by and deeply missed by family both in the United States and Sweden.
A memorial service will be held in private. Rather than sending flowers, kindly make a donation to any orphanage or animal rescue group.