Obituary of Martha Fergusson

Schenectady Martha S. Fergusson, daughter of the late Frank and Mary Skala, passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2023, following the culmination of a long battle with lung disease and exhaustion from the constant after-effects of a severe spinal infection she endured decades ago. Martha was devoted to her family: whether she was hosting a Christmas gathering for the Skalas, providing a landing pad for the Hutwagners as they traveled throughout the country, or ensuring her daughter Mary took advantage of every opportunity available to her. Martha was the daughter of the late Frank and Mary Skala, and sister of the late George Skala. In addition, she was pre-deceased by her beloved husband Robert J. Fergusson; Aunt Jean Fergusson; sisters-in-law Louise Skala and Lois Hutwagner; niece Linda Skala; nephews Wayne Skala and Frederick (Freddie) Hutwagner; and dear friends Elaine and Robert (Bob) Buda, Sr.; Fran, Walter and Glenn Rabbe; and Helen and Bill Leikhim. Martha is survived by her loving daughter Mary Jean Fergusson, her nephews Robert (Cindy) Skala, Glenn Skala, Bruce (Laurie) Skala, Craig (Linda) Skala, Douglas (Laurie) Hutwagner, Brian Hutwagner, and Gregory Hutwagner, many great-nieces and nephews, and dear friends Joan Muir, Mark and Kathy Rabbe, Robbie Buda, Nancy Serson, Paul “Harpo” Leikhim and Donna Clare. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am Thursday, July 27 at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2733 Albany Street at Kings Road, Schenectady. Family and friends are invited to gather in the Saint Paul the Apostle Gathering Space on Albany Street prior to the mass to pay their respects. Burial will follow in Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Arrangements are by Jones Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Colonie. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.jonesfh.net.