Martha Louise Swillum

Martha Louise Swillum, 94, formerly of California, Mo., passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia. Martha was born November 27, 1921, in Cooper County, Mo., daughter of Harvey and Elizabeth (Knipker) Wisdom who have preceded her in death. Martha graduated from Prairie Home High School and married Leo J. Swillum who also preceded her in death. Martha was a homemaker and also worked in factories. She retired from the University of Missouri where she worked for University Printing Services. She was a wonderful cook, her homemade cinnamon rolls were enjoyed by many, she also loved to sew. She is survived by: three daughters, Christine Varner of Columbia, Mo., Mary Jo Fahrni (John) of Warrenton, Mo. and Jeanne Swillum of San Diego, Calif.; one sister, Esther Loyd (Ed Wilds) of Independence, Mo.; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by: her parents, husband, one daughter, Ruth Ann Dill and one brother, Robert Wisdom. Visitation were held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, Febryary 27, 2016, prior to the service at the church. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2016, at Annunciation Catholic Church in California, Mo., with the Reverend Toni Rinaldo officiating. Burial was in Annunciation Catholic Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or the donor's choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at PhillipsFuneralHomeCalifornia.com