Martha Ann Bullis Obituary
Martha Ann Bullis, age 78, passed away peacefully to join her beloved husband Mark Bullis on July 25, 2024, at 11:55 p.m, preceded by her brother Richard Deweerdt, in Little Elm, Texas.
She is survived by her loving brothers Dave Deweerdt and Byron Deweerdt, her children Todd Bullis, Mikel Bullis, Terese Bastarache, Matthew Bullis, Thomas Bullis, Tyler Bullis, Tracy Mancuso, Celeste McMillan, Indigo McMillan, Deja Rasch, and Isais Nichols. as well as her many cherished grandchildren.
Martha was born on September 20, 1945, in Fulton, Illinois, to Wilbur and Jean Deweerdt. With immense determination, she moved to California and, as a single mother, pursued her dream of becoming a nurse. Balancing full-time work with nursing school and parenting, Marty's dedication was unwavering. Her brother Dave fondly recalls her passion for being a traveling hospice nurse. She treated her work not merely as a job but as a profound calling, spending countless hours in her 1967 Ford Mustang traveling across the San Fernando Valley to care for the sick and dying. On August 7, 1971, she married Mark Bullis in Ventura, California. Together, they transitioned from their careers to become successful business owners, but their greatest achievement was the love and care they poured into raising their children. It is fitting that she concluded her professional journey as a successful business owner of residential elder care facilities.
Martha, known affectionately as Marty, was a beacon of love and support for her family. She stood by Mark through his many ventures and embraced her role as a mother with boundless affection and dedication. In 2021, Marty and Mark moved to Little Elm, Texas, where they resided at the Saddlebrook Memory Care Facility.
Marty was renowned for her enthusiasm for finding great bargains at local swap meets and her infectious love for her children. Her playful wit and sense of humor made her a joy to be around. She was famous for her shopping trips, family vacations, and her love for a good bucket of popcorn. Marty shared a special bond with her brothers, often getting into playful trouble, such as sneaking off to gamble on riverboats along the Mississippi.
Her home was a testament to her warm and inviting nature, filled with country trinkets and decor that made it feel like a haven. Marty had a fondness for saying, "If you ain't Dutch, you ain't much," a sentiment that captured her spirited personality. Her home was always open to friends and family, and she and Mark loved preparing meals for those they cared about.
In her final months, Marty enjoyed simple pleasures like Jolly Ranchers, popcorn, and a final request of key lime pie. She cherished conversations about her family, often recalling Todd's mischievous childhood antics with pride. Her grandchildren, Chloe and Joe Bullis, fondly remember her selflessness, particularly a moment when she gave butterscotch candy to Chloe during a time-out.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Todd and Steffanie Bullis and their family for the care and love they provided to Marty and Mark during their time in Texas. Gratitude is also expressed to Matthew and Amber Bullis for ensuring Marty received the best possible care in her final years. The family appreciates the unwavering support of their children, grandchildren, brothers Dave and Byron, and friends. A special thank you goes to the staff at Saddlebrook Memory Care Facility for their compassionate care.
Martha Ann Bullis will be remembered for her loving spirit, her humor, and the enduring legacy of her family. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
