My darling, beautiful, caring, and talented wife Martha Frances West Glissmeyer passed away early this morning (Feb 4, 2018) at Utah Valley Hospital. Over the course of the last two months, she has had one thing after another piled on her...leukemia, metastasized breast cancer, kidney failure, and liver damage. After five hospital stays, it was time for her to say goodbye, and to meet up again with her mother and father, and others who have gone before. I'm sure it was a marvelous reunion. I am so painfully jealous of those in the spirit world who now get to enjoy her smile, her laugh, her singing, and generous, kind disposition. Currently we're aiming for Saturday the 10th for her funeral
Obituary for Martha Glissmeyer (West)
Martha Frances West Glissmeyer passed away Sunday morning, February 4th due to complications from septic shock, secondary to cancer. She was born August 9,1960 to Franklin L. West, Jr. and Frances Montrose West in Boise Idaho. Her mother said that when she was born, she sat up with her big eyes wide with excitement, as if to say, “Let’s get this party started!” She had a zest for life that simply defined her.
At age six, Martha’s family moved to Provo, Utah, where she lived most of her life. Martha was in the first graduating class of Timpview High School, in 1978. Throughout junior high and high school, she enjoyed drama, music, and friends. She served an LDS mission to Tegucigalpa, Honduras and attended Brigham Young University (BYU), where she received a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance. As a brilliant singer, she played leading roles in several operas at BYU, including Madame Butterfly, Carmen, The Tales of Hoffman, Die Fledermaus, and The Marriage of Figaro.
While student directing The Pirates of Penzance, she fell in love with the Pirate King, Eric Glissmeyer. They married August 19,1989 in the Salt Lake Temple. Martha went on to complete a master’s degree at BYU in Vocal Performance/Pedagogy. Many vocal students have been blessed by her loving instruction through the years. For more than forty years, she graced the stages of Sundance, Hale Center Theater (Orem), Hale Centre Theatre (Sandy), Scera, Playmill, The Capitol Theater, and more.
Of all her roles, her most cherished were wife and mother. After ten years of yearning for children, Martha and Eric were blessed with a miracle—twins! Paul and Caroline have been her pride, her joy, and her life since their birth nineteen years ago.
As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Martha enjoyed serving in many ward and stake callings.
Martha is preceded in death by her parents Franklin and Frances West. She is survived by her husband Eric and their two children Paul and Caroline; nine siblings: Franklin L. West, III (Kathleen), John L. West (Janet), Joseph A. West (Lani), Stephen M. West (Cosette), Ralph E. West (Karla), Kathryn West Burnham (John), Charles T. West (Ann), David A. West (Jeanette), and many adoring nieces and nephews.
We are so painfully jealous of those in the spirit world who now get to enjoy her smile, her laugh, her singing, and her generous, kind disposition. The heavenly choir has gained a gifted singer. Martha left this world too soon, but much better than she found it.
VISITATION: Friday, February 9, 6:00-8:00 PM at Nelson Family Mortuary 4780 North University Ave, Provo, UT 84604.
FUNERAL: Saturday, February 10 at 10 AM at the LDS chapel on 4056 North Timpview Dr, Provo, UT 84604 “the red church” (visitation beginning at 8:00 AM).
INTERMENT: Saturday, Logan City Cemetery.
Listen to Martha as the soloist in this song performed by the Brigham Young University Singers.
Such a gorgeous voice. Perfect for this rendition. Til we meet again, Martha!
Here is Martha, as Katisha, in Provo High's 1977 performance of the Mikado.
Kim Woolf (Bosler)
I sat next to Martha in Acapella class during high school. Her mother was right. Her big, bright, beautiful, eyes were always full of light as if to say, “Let’s get this party started, my friends!”
Everyone loved Martha. For as talented, smart and radiant as she was, she was just as humble and kind. She always encouraged others. She made me a better singer and person just sitting by her. I have only fond memories of this lovely woman and friend. God bless her beautiful family. She will be greatly missed!
Kim (Woolf) Bosler
John Beck
Martha and I didn't cross paths much, but when we did, I was always blown away by her maturity and wisdom. I figured she'd completely "come into her own" after high school and so glad to read that she did. So happy to read about her amazing journey, but so sad to hear that it was cut short.
Karen Soerensen (Soerensen)
I had the fun of seeing Martha again when her kids were attending school at Centennial. It took us only a minute to realize we knew it other from what seemed like a lifetime ago, but she always had that bright sunny smile that made your day.
Bryan Chapman
Martha, you were always a light and an inspiration for me, through high school and beyond. You inspired me to return to the stage after a long hiatus. In fact, your performance in Provo High's 1977 production of the Mikado was a huge factor in my pursuit of acting in the first place. I will never forget your enthusiasm, awe-inspiring talent, your unwavering, positive attitude and that smile. God be with you til we meet again!
Tami Lloyd (Cutler)
Martha— how can we as a class tell you how inspiring you have been. No one ever left being with you without being lifted. Your smile so wide it almost had an identity of its own and your genuine spirit that we all were acustom to feeling. Thank you for our look back today. That look challenges all of us to move foreword with greater purpose. We are a unique class. For some reason we were to come together to make a difference and for me— you exemplified the direction that difference should take. We love you‼️Rene Mayfield (Kesler)
Martha has affected so many of us for good. What a blessing she was in our lives! My mom wanted Martha to sing at her funeral; Mom was the one who told me of Martha's passing. Her positive reach extends beyond what any of us even know. Hugs to all of us who need one.
Colin Hickenlooper
Martha is such a dear spirit. I have many fond memories from choir, concerts, tours, The Mikado. I am very grateful to be able to call her a friend. She will be sorely missed!
Jana Farnsworth (Westbrook)
Martha was one of those people who radiated the Light of Christ. She seemed to always be happy and upbeat in her love for people. I can only imagine what her beautiful voice sounds like now in the heavenly choirs. You will be missed greatly, Martha!
Bob Thurston
In high school, Martha was a perfect example of what President Monson admonished us all to do when we stand for what we believe . . . Even if we stand alone. I wish I would have spent more time being Christ-like (as Martha did) instead of worrying about gaining approval from the "popular" crowd. Martha is the the ipidomy of who I want to be like when (and if ever) I grow up!! Thank you Martha for teaching me what it looks like to have the image of Christ in ones countenance!
Debbie Rowe (Bracken)
I can only imagine the celebations on the other side of the veil occuring right now. The choirs will be that much more amazing with Martha singing in their midst. I too, remember the Mikado and Martha's amazing performance, enhanced by her dyed (almost permently) black hair. I have fond memories of singing in choirs with Martha, great discussions in English classes, and being on the forensic team with her. She exuded a positive nature and fun spirit. Best wishes to her family.