Martha von den Stemmen's Obituary
Martha von den Stemmen was born on September 3rd, 1965, in Cali Colombia and she tragically passed on April 15th, 2024. She lived a full life, full of adventure, and love. She was a vibrant woman, who was enigmatic and would easily light up a room. Her personality was bold and beautiful. Her presence couldn’t be ignored, and her smile was infectious. She was always very interested in the intricacies of people's lives and was able to hold a conversation with anyone about anything. She loved fashion and designing her own nails and makeup--especially to match any festive events. She cultivated close relationships everywhere she went, from her friends at Office Depot, to the individuals in their apartment building, to her family all over the US and in South America. To say she will be deeply missed is a vast understatement, as she was loved deeply by all.
Otmar von den Stemmen is her surviving husband, and they were married for 24 years. She moved from Colombia to Los Angeles in 2002 and then to Hawaii about 10 years ago. As they became Hawaiian locals, her infectious personality and exotic looks moved her away from the term “Haole”. She was often mistaken as a true local, a thing that not many attain.
She tragically passed in Aiea, Hawaii, after falling ill in August of 2023. She is survived by her husband Otmar von den Stemmen, her 2 brothers Ricardo and Juan Ramirez-Valderrama, her 2 step-daughters Jess and Kristall von den Stemmen, and many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.
Family, friends, and others whose lives were touched by Martha, are invited to Valley of the Temples Memorial Park at 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744 from 11AM-2:00 PM on Wednesday May 1st, 2024, to reminisce, grieve, support each other, and share memories of this beautiful soul. If you can’t make the distance, there will be a live Webcast of the event, so that all can participate in any form. Please contact Jess von den Stemmen if you would like a link texted or emailed to you at 805-390-5464.
What’s your fondest memory of Martha?
What’s a lesson you learned from Martha?
Share a story where Martha's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Martha you’ll never forget.
How did Martha make you smile?
