Martha Dhondt, 86, Moline, passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at Heartland Health Care, Moline. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Saturday at St. Anne Catholic Church, East Moline. Burial is in St. Mary's Cemetery, East Moline. Visitation is 5-7PM Friday at Van Hoe Funeral Home ltd., East Moline. Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Martha was born on August 23, 1930 in Chelsea, IA, to Joe and Mary Valenta. She graduated from UTHS. She married the love of her life, Joseph Dhondt, on April 7, 1951 at St. Anne's Catholic Church. Martha worked as a secretary at the former John Deere Mallable, East Moline. She enjoyed spending time with her family, going to church, sewing, summers by the pool and most of all, babies and puppies. She adored all of her grandchildren and couldn't wait for the arrival of all 34 of her great grandchildren. The world lost a kind and gentle soul that radiated love and laughter. Those who knew Martha were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from her: be kind to all, never give up, see the positive side of the situation and only follow the rules that make sense (there's nothing wrong with swimming in the dark on a full stomach). Her spirit will be carried on by her 5 daughters, Michelle (Bruce) Wild, Moline, Annette (Jim) Wilson, Moline, Roxann (Jeff) Witt, Plainfield, IL, Jean (Scott) Goebel, Geneseo and Kris (Larry) Heiland, East Moline, 17 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren. In addition to her husband she was preceded in death by siblings, William Polka, Leonard Polka and Louise Zhorne. Those who were touched by Martha's genuine soul will continue to: be brave in difficult situations, love deeper than they ever thought possible, radiate sunshine onto others and always dance through life, enjoying every step of the way. If you were lucky enough to know Martha, you felt her love. One for one.

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Saturday, January 7, 2017 10:30 AM

St. Anne Catholic Church 555 18th Ave. East Moline, Illinois 61244