Marthea Anne Putnam

Marthea Anne Putnam passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 76, surrounded by her three children.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Calvin and Joyce Opsahl, Marthea grew up in Bloomington alongside her siblings Sharron, Todd, and Ross. After graduating from Kennedy High School, she attended Gustavus Adolphus College, where she earned her nursing degree. At Gustavus, she formed lifelong friendships and became affectionately known as "MAO" to her fellow Gusties, remaining close with many of them for more than 50 years. The importance she placed on education and the relationships she built at Gustavus were later reflected in her son Russell's experience at St. Olaf College.

For more than 45 years, Marthea served as a nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. Nursing was not simply her profession; it was her calling. She cared for countless children and supported families through some of their most difficult moments with compassion, skill, and strength. She was also a dedicated union representative who advocated for her fellow nurses, earned the respect of colleagues, and built many lasting relationships throughout her remarkable career until her retirement in 2018. The example she set influenced many people throughout her life, including her daughter Melanie, who followed her into the nursing profession.

For more than 40 years, Marthea called Fernando Avenue in Apple Valley home, where she raised her three children. As a single parent, she provided for her family while making sure her children always knew they were her top priority. Looking back, her children have come to appreciate the many sacrifices she made on their behalf. She never missed a sporting event, competition, or recital, put all three of her children through college, and taught them the importance of working hard, standing up for themselves, and showing up for the people they love. As her family grew, she embraced her role as Grandma and cherished every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren.

Marthea enjoyed reading, gardening, crossword puzzles, and trips to the casino. Some of her happiest memories were made during her family's annual summer trips to Little Wolf Resort, where they fished, relaxed, and enjoyed time together. Those summer trips became a cherished tradition and eventually inspired her son Brian and daughter-in-law Ashley to purchase a family resort of their own, where they strive to help other families create similar memories.

Those who knew Marthea will remember her as straightforward, stubborn, and someone who never took any nonsense. She was an advocate for others, never hesitated to speak her mind, and was devoted to her family, friends, and patients. While she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in the memories she leaves behind and in the example she set for those she loved.

Marthea was preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Joyce Opsahl; her brother, Todd Opsahl, and husband, James Putnam.

She is survived by her children, Russell Putnam (Jessica Sauter), Brian Putnam (Ashley), and Melanie Anderson (Brett); her grandchildren, Audrey, Beckett, Henry, and Lauren; her sister, Sharron Haas; her brother, Ross Opsahl, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 5th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Starkson Family ~ Anderson Chapel in Apple Valley, followed by a brief memorial service celebrating Marthea’s life at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to join us at the Tavern Grill-Apple Valley (15435 Founders Lane) to share stories, memories, and friendship.

A private family interment at Acacia Park Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Marthea’s memory may consider supporting a cause that is close to their heart.