Martha Maxine (Smith) Galash

Martha Maxine Galash passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 88, after a brief battle with COVID‑19. Born on August 7, 1936, in Portland, Oregon, she was the youngest of three children born to James and Maryan Smith. Martha spent her early years on the Oregon coast with her sister Jackie and brother Jim. After her family moved to Tigard in the seventh grade, she graduated from high school in 1955. She then served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Washington, D.C., where she met her future husband, Nick, whom she married in July 1957.

She was passionate about people and the friendships she formed through the St. Stanislaus Polish community. Alongside her husband Nick, she devoted many years to supporting the Polish Festival. She was also a dedicated member of the Sunny Hills Garden Club. Her love of gardening and flowers led her to become a certified floral design judge, presiding over garden shows across the state.

Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Nicholas, in 2013. She is survived by her children Mary; Theresa Escobedo (Cornelius); Nicholas Jr. (Resa); and Stephen (April); her twelve grandchildren, and four great‑grandchildren.

Services will be held Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at St. Therese Catholic Church in Portland. Father Gabriele M. White will officiate the prayer services with a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11:00 a.m. After Mass, please join the family at the Parish Social Center for a reception followed by a procession to Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery for the Committal Ceremony. Funeral Directed by Riverview Abbey Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to the charity of your choice or to Store to Door of Oregon, which supports independent living for seniors through affordable, volunteer‑based grocery shopping and delivery in Portland.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Providence Portland Medical Center and Providence Home Health Services for their loving care.

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