Martha ‘Marty’ Croop, September 26, 1932 – July 1, 2025
92 years of dedication to her family, community, and making others laugh.
With hearts full of love and more than a few stories we’ll be telling for years, we say goodbye to Marty Croop, who passed away peacefully at the age of 92.
Marty lived life with a strong spirit and was a rebel with etiquette. She loved quietly, but fiercely. Her humor wasn’t loud, but it was silly, often sharp, and best delivered with a glance. Her great expressions said a thousand words, especially her mischievous grin. She believed that laughter was the greatest gift you could give someone, and she gave it in a subtle, light-hearted way. Not usually an intentional punchline, more so perfectly imperfect timing.
Raised in Rochester, NY by Louis B. and Ruth Cartwright. Her father was the city manager for thirteen years and served as Postmaster for 4 years and her mother served on many social committees. With her parents’ influence, she was taught early on about the value of service to your community and integrity. It was with these values she built her own life, one filled with independence, strength, and the freedom to go her own way.
She is survived by her sister and lifelong best friend, Eleanor Parfitt, who recently turned 100. The two not only shared a lifetime of memories, they also shared an office as administrators, and a deep, intuitive love that only sisters could understand. Another best friend Marty spoke of often was Marjorie “Marge” Case Lewis, her beloved cousin.
Marty leaves behind four beloved children, Sheryl Evans, Steve Croop (Colette), Jim Croop and Carolyn Croop, nine grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren; all of which carry some version of her, such as, a love for nature and wildlife, a skeptical raised eyebrow, or a quiet commitment to others, showing up when needed.
For over 30 years, she volunteered with the Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, driving to nearly 3,000 calls and showing up for over 30,000 hours of service. To her, it was all about community. She showed up to do the work with integrity and enjoy time spent with like-minded people.
While she also spent hours playing solitaire, she was truly an adventurer at heart. Nature was her favorite companion: staring out her window at the birds or taking a drive along a scenic lakeside. She loved pausing to take in nature.
She was grateful for her family, friends, and opportunities to explore the world. She was also grateful for her experiences and shared what she learned. She often said, “when life gets hard, as it does at times, take it moment by moment. Break it down.” That was her way: simple, yet strong.
A celebration of her life will be held on July 17th from 4pm to 7pm at Mendon Ponds Park, 95 Douglas Rd, Pittsford, NY. In honor of her legacy, please consider donating to Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance. And maybe, take a different road home, she loved taking the scenic route.
Thank you, Marty, for showing us how to live thoughtfully and joyfully, and find adventure in the everyday. You were, and always will be, one of a kind.
15 responses to “Croop, Martha “Marty””
Miss you grandma!
Here’s the link to donate to Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance.
https://pittsfordambulance.org/donate/
I miss you terribly, not only were you my mother, you were my best friend who I talked to every night at 7pm. We had a lot of good discussions and many laughs. I’m grateful that I was able to get in that last one I love you and you in reverse, not knowing that a few hours later you would be gone; but you will always be with me in my heart.
Sheryl,
Losing one of your best friends is difficult especially when it is your mother. I’m sorry for your loss.
I didn’t realize that Marge Case Lewis was your mother’s cousin. There was another remarkable woman. It must run in your family.
Peace be with you and know that your mom soars with the angels.
Thank you Sue.
Carolyn,
I was sad to read that your mom has passed away, but to know she lived 92 years is nothing to be sad about. (My mom will be 94 next month, so I totally “get” it.)
Cherish your memories & continue to live your life in such a way that it honors her; she may be physically gone, but emotionally, she remains.
Is she a democrat or a republican ?So sorry for the loss of your Mother. You are in our thoughts and Prayers.
So sorry for the loss of your Mother. You’re in our thoughts and prayers .
I worked with your Mom for several years at PVA. She was a dedicated lady and a mean bridge player! Truly a life well lived. So sorry for your loss.
I never knew mom played Bridge, that is a new one on me.
I had the privilege of working with Marty for many years. A real blessing. So sad to learn of her death. Such a loss, but a wonderful life well lived!
Thank you Don, I remember you very well. She was a hard worker and very dedicated in everything that she did.
Oh our dear Marty, she will be remembered for her welcoming smile and her spunk. She had a cute sense of humor and was always willing to have a chat. I will always remember her playing solitaire with her 4-6 decks of cards in her living-room at Clark Meadows as I walked in. It was always a pleasure whenever I had the pleasure of seeing her. My condolences to her family and friends.
Thank you Peggy, and your so correct about her playing with her deck of cards all the time, that was one of her biggest passions.
I remember Marty from the annual Stephen’s college reunion pool parties my mom would host.
Several women from the Rochester area attended Stephen’s through the years.
I remember helping my mom, Pat Schlegel set up for the party. I was in high school at the time.
I always enjoyed seeing Marty.
I remember saying ” mom, Marty’s here, she’s got the ambulance!”.
I thought that was so cool.
Maybe that’s why I became a nurse.
Wanted to share that memory with your family.
I’ll never forget Marty.
So sorry for your loss.
Nancy Schlegel Marks
A life well lived.
Love always,
-your former son-in law,
Mark Marsillett