Louise ‘Lou’ Henrietta (St. Martin) Boddy

ESCANABA — Louise “Lou” Henrietta (St. Martin) Boddy of Escanaba, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at the age of 102 with loved ones by her side. She strived to live in her own home and remained there until a very short stay at Cedar Hill Assisted Living where she was supported by the most attentive and caring staff until the end.

Lou was born on January 10, 1923, in Escanaba, the daughter of Elmer and Henrietta (VandeWiele) St. Martin. She graduated from Escanaba Area Schools. Lou began her employment with Michigan Bell Telephone Company as an operator in 1941. During WWII, she volunteered as an operator in Detroit, Norfolk, and Santa Monica. In 1969, she was promoted to the Head of Operator Services in Escanaba and retired after 40 years with the company.

In July 1972, Lou was united in marriage to William M. Boddy. Together they enjoyed their cabin in Ford River, traveling, golfing, and spending time with their many friends and family. Their adoration for each other was unmatched.

She was an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church until its closure and became a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Parish, both in Escanaba. Besides attending daily mass, Lou volunteered for funeral luncheons, decorated the altar at St. Patrick’s church for weekend services, participated in the prayer chain, and treasured her friendship with Rev. Fr. Ron Skufca. Lou’s deep faith guided her throughout her life.

Lou loved to shop, garden, bake, and knit (especially hats to donate to local children and scarves for her family and friends). Her support and love transformed the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people, share herself, and find joy in all things. Her family knew her as “Aunt Sis” and she made many special memories with her nieces and nephews and their children. She brightened every room with her contagious smile and ability to find fun in all she did. She will be remembered with fondness by those who were closest to her when they see a smiley face, polka dots, or enjoy a piece of chocolate.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Boddy in 1991, her mother and father, brothers (Frank, John, and Robert), sisters (Helen and Mary), and their spouses.

She is survived by many nieces/nephews, great- nieces/nephews, and great-great- nieces/nephews. As well as, many friends who have been family to her.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 11 at St. Anne’s Catholic Church with visitation from 1-2 and mass to follow. In honor of her love for sweets, the family has requested celebrating her long and beautiful life with refreshments and desserts in the parish hall. Louise will be laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery next to her husband. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Boddy family. To offer an online message of sympathy please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com.