Martha J. Szalo

KEWANEE – Martha J. Szalo, 80, of Kewanee, passed away Sunday, December 4, 2022 surrounded by her granddaughter and great grandchildren.

Martha graduated from Bradley University and then began teaching at Black Hawk East College. She went on to report for the Star Courier and later freelanced for the Peoria Journal Star. Martha was an incredible journalist and was not scared to speak the truth earning her the nickname “The Shark”. She won many journalism awards for extensive reporting.

In 2018 Martha moved in with her granddaughter Briana and her family where she spent her remaining years watching her great grandchildren grow up. Martha touched many lives and was loved by many and if you were lucky enough to have known her you know she was a true friend. She is now at home with her beloved Aladar.

Martha is survived by her three children; Elisabeth (Duke) Frisby, Kathryn Butler and Steven Szalo, six grandchildren; Briana (Willie) Frisby, Eric (Megan) Szalo, Keiji (Heather) Szalo, Stephanie Szalo, Zack Szalo and Dalton Butler, nine great grandchildren; Ashiyan, Katrelle, Jasira, Maryne, Adalynne, Olivia, Miles, Hazel, and Emily and finally there’s one great-great grandchild, Dre’vyn Eddie who Martha simply adored. She was preceded in death by her husband, Aladar, her father, Robert Barry and her mother, Evelyn Ames (Calcutt).

Per her wishes donation to medical science was accorded. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements.

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