The world is far less bright with the passing of Martha Bergener Albue on Nov. 19, 2020, in Phoenix, AZ.
Martha was born June 29, 1958 in Roswell, New Mexico, and raised with the love of her parents, Dr. Karl L. and Janece M. “Frankie” Bergener, and her nine older brothers and sisters. After graduating from Goddard High School, and New Mexico State University with a degree in Journalism, she set her sights on Phoenix, Arizona.
Her marketing career began in the shopping center industry in Phoenix, developing national and local mall-wide public relations and media events. Since 1998, Martha was an accomplished marketing professional within the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction industry with A/E/C leaders, EMC2 Group Architect Planners, Leo A Daly, and Jokake Construction. Martha was proudly bestowed commendations as Certified Business Developer and Certified Professional Services Marketer, and served as CPSM chair for the Arizona Chapter, 2017-2019. She also poured her heart into community service, working tirelessly as Membership Engagement Committee Vice-Chair for the Phoenix Community Alliance, as well as a member of the Arizona Humane Society’s President’s Club Steering Committee. Martha served on the Board of Jazz in Arizona, which operates The Nash jazz venue on Roosevelt Row, and supported the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Desert Botanical Garden, where she was very happily married during a ceremony in the garden.
Those who fell under her enchanting spell describe Martha as elegant, classy, beautiful, wickedly funny, and always loving and caring. Such a mighty spirit in such a tiny package, her strength and fortitude against all obstacles is a shining example to all.
Martha is survived by her beloved husband, Bryan Albue, her sisters Jane Andrews (Mike) of Grand Junction, CO, Elizabeth Franchini (Greg) of Albuquerque, NM, Teresa Reddoch of Albuquerque, NM, and Karla Church (Chris) of Broomfield, CO; her brothers John Bergener of Roswell, NM and Steve Bergener (Susan) of Katy, TX, as well as many nieces and nephews. Her parents, Dr. Karl L. and Janece M. “Frankie” Bergener, sister Barbara Montgomery, brothers Charles L. “Pete” Bergener and Bob Bergener, and her nephew Claud B. Montgomery, Jr. preceded her in death.
Family, and countless friends, will remember her lovingly for her indomitable spirit, her passion for life, her concern for others, and her brilliant smile, that – like her wit, and spunky sense of humor – always lit up the room.
A viewing will be held Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ from noon to 6:00 PM. Covid-19 precautions will be taken. See whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com for details. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Martha Albue to the Arizona Humane Society, azhumane.org or Desert Botanical Garden, dbg.org.
Lauren Greenwade
Martha was pure joy! Her love of life oozed from her pores! She was adored by all starting our freshman year at GHS.
Sending my love and prayers to all of you who were loved by Martha.
peace and blessings,
Lauren Greenwade
Joe&Gina Alvarado
It was an honor to work with Martha, such a big heart in a tiny frame. Always classy, and her laugh; priceless. Rest peacefully my friend. Our Sincere Condolences .
Steve Scarano
These brief, heartfelt words of encouragement and shared sorrow, from a longtime friend of the Roswell Bergener family. Good and decent folks.
Betsy Reinman Stein
Martha and I met as dorm neighbors at NMSU. She was such a fun friend — smart, warm, classy and lively. Through her, I met other wonderful friends from her beloved home town of Roswell. Martha, I was planning to get to PHX when I moved back to ABQ in fall 2019, but it hasn’t been possible. I wish so much we could have met for a good catch-up. Thinking of you and sending support and love to your family who will miss you so much.
Lauri Stokes
So grateful you came back into my life; Albeit on Facebook. I could always plan on a beautiful smiling face on the other side of a post! Wish we could have had one last hug but your smile will last a lifetime.
My Heart and Prayers are with Family and friends. There is no doubt that Bryan made that smile bigger and more beautiful. She was so happy with you!
God speed. You will be missed Martha.
Adrienne Gill
I am still in shock over Martha’s sudden passing. She was an unstoppable force who was kind and helpful to every worthwhile cause and was always available to those in need either in business or within her inner circle of many friends. She will be missed by many whose lives she touched over the years with her captivating smile and inviting personality. People like Martha are the underlying strength of a strong community that will always remember her many contributions to the success of both individuals and institutions who benefitted from just knowing her and being a part of her life well-lived. I am certain she is in a better place and will continue to push us all forward to emulate the principles she stood for during her time on this planet of ours. Gone too soon, she remains in our hearts.
Debra Anderson
My deepest sympathy to the Bergener and Albue families! This is very sad news to hear. I haven’t seen Martha since we were kids. We went to St, Peters and Yucca together! It’s funny her father delivered me at St. Mary’s Hospital! I also, remember a Halloween party at their home and there was a huge stoplight lamp in the family room. We all wanted to trick or treat at this home that was giving out the big candy bars! Funny the things you remember at times like this. Again I am so very sorry for your loss! May the Lord bless and comfort all of you!