Martha Lee Vogel

Martha Lee Vogel, age 97, of Novi, formerly of Worthington, Ohio, passed away February 6, 2025. She was born on April 3, 1927 in Portsmouth, Ohio; daughter of Howard and Maria (Young) Smith. Martha Lee graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1945. After high school she joined the work force as a “Rosie” working at Wright Patterson Air Force Base as a switchboard operator toward the end of WWII. She later continued her education taking business courses at the University of Dayton. Martha Lee married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Roger Lee Vogel, on March 28, 1948; they spent 67 years devoted to one another until his death on September 11, 2015. 

Martha Lee dedicated her life to caring for her family with unwavering love and support. A devoted wife and mother, she gracefully managed her children’s many activities while also being a steadfast pillar in her husband’s career. Proudly calling herself a “Corporate Wife,” Martha was an invaluable partner in her husband’s professional journey, always by his side as a gracious hostess and enthusiastic attendee at corporate events. Martha took great pride in her beautifully kept home and yard. Her flower gardens flourished with Iris, Snow on the Mountain, and Lily of the Valley, many of which were grown from bulbs passed down from her mother, a tradition she lovingly continued with her own children and grandchildren. 

Martha Lee was a tremendous athlete and enjoyed playing both tennis and golf. As a member of Worthington Hills Country Club and the Country Club at Muirfield Village she played in women’s leagues and volunteered to organize Pro-Am tournaments. An avid sailor, Martha Lee was a member of the Port Clinton Yacht Club. She spent countless hours sailing across Lake Erie, the Florida coast, and the Bahamas, embracing the beauty and freedom of the open water. Her competitive spirit and love of socializing made playing bridge a perfect fit. She played in numerous groups and helped to organize games at Waltonwood. A world traveler, Martha Lee embraced adventure and explored many destinations throughout Europe and the Caribbean. 

A faithful follower of the Lord, Martha Lee was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. Most recently, she attended First United Methodist Church in Northville, where she found joy in volunteering on Fridays to help prepare for Sunday services. Her greatest joy, however, came from her family and she treasured all the time they spent together. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Martha Lee will be truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. 

Martha Lee is survived by her loving children, Sher (Rick) Watkins and Roger (Marsha) Vogel, II; her grandchildren, Julie Wise, Mindy (Bob) Wolfe, Tracy (Paul) Harris, Landy (Joe) Butters, and Roger (Diana) Vogel, III; and her great grandchildren, Gwen Wise, Luke Wise, Jonathan Wolfe, Izzie Harris, Joseph Butters, George Butters, Patrick Butters, Jack Butters, Morgan Vogel, Annaliese Vogel, Jocelyn Vogel, and Derrick Vogel. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents. 

Private family services will be held. In lieu of flower the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Face to Faith Ministry, 224 Northstone Place, Fayetteville, NC 28303.