Martha “Fern” Borchardt O’Brien, age 88, born in Granite City, Illinois on January 30, 1926, passed away August 4, 2014, after sudden illness. She lived in Brooklyn for over 40 years and spent many years in Blissfield with winters in Bradenton, Florida. She married Robert Borchardt April 6, 1946 who preceded her in death in 1976. They had three children who survive – a daughter: Karan (Mike) Raymond, Englewood, FL; two sons – Robert (Judy) Borchardt, Brooklyn, MI; and William (Beth) Borchardt, Blissfield, MI. On April 25, 1980, she married John “Bud” O’Brien who has also preceded her in death in 2008, and has a step daughter: Sherri (Thom) Leholm, Sandy, UT and a nephew: James (Sandy) Reed, Aloma, CA. She was blessed with eight grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. She was a housewife, part-time employee, active with the Jaycees – working with the blind, the American Legion Auxiliary, loved fishing, especially socializing with friends and family. Martha Fern had a passion for cooking, making cookies and breads for the veterans and making her special recipes for family and friends. As an avid sports fan, the Detroit Tigers were her favorites, along with watching her sons and grandchildren play. A Celebration of life and memories was held on Saturday, August 9, 2014 beginning at 1 p.m. until the time of service at 3 p.m. with Reverend Christine Barnes officiating at the Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Braun Chapel, Brooklyn. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Legion Auxiliary, Post #315, Brooklyn, MI, Blissfield Rotary Club or Greenleaf Care Home, Jackson, MI. Please sign Martha’s guestbook at www.borekjennings.com or leave a message of comfort for her family by calling 877-231-7900.