Martha Fierro Dela Torre Haberman's Obituary
Martha “Martita” Fierro Dela Torre Haberman, a devoted educator, fearless adventurer, and beloved mother, sister, grandmother, wife, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025. Her life was a beautiful testament to service, curiosity, and the power of community.
Born in Quito, Ecuador, Martita was the third of four siblings. Even as a young woman, she carried within her a spirit of discovery and openness that would shape her journey. As a teenager, she became an exchange student and studied in Minnesota, forging early ties to the United States and embracing new cultures with enthusiasm. Upon returning to Ecuador, she then met her life partner, George Haberman. With love and courage, she left her home country to begin a new life with George in California — a bold step that led to a lifetime of shared adventure, “52 years” of marriage to be exact.
George and Martha journeyed from a marriage in California to nearly a decade in American Samoa. Their adventure together spanned continents and oceans — quite literally — including a memorable chapter living aboard a boat while sailing through the South Pacific. Eventually settling into island life on Saipan, where they pursued careers in education under the Pacific Islands Trusteeship and contributed to the development of the Commonwealth government's education system.
It was during this time that Martha's love for the sea blossomed, deepening her connection to nature and shaping the values she would later pass on to both her children and students.
Eventually, Martha and George settled on the island of Saipan, in the Northern Marianas, where they became pillars of the community. Martha dedicated over 25 years to the public school system, rising through the ranks to become a respected principal and mentor. Her love of learning — and her belief in nurturing the whole child — left a lasting impression on generations of students, educators, and families. She often reminded others that “learning is lifelong,” and she lived by that philosophy in every sense.
It was on Saipan that Martha met her dearest friend and kindred spirit, Margarita Camacho. Together, these two remarkable women left an indelible legacy. As educators, mentors, and champions of youth development, they poured their hearts into both the public school system and the Girl Scouts of the Northern Mariana Islands.
With unwavering commitment, Martha and Margarita expanded opportunities for young girls in the islands, encouraging them to lead with confidence, live with courage, and give back to their communities. Their work reflected the Girl Scout mission: to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. From classrooms to campgrounds, they inspired young minds to dream boldly, act ethically, and serve wholeheartedly.
Martha’s impact reached far beyond her professional achievements. A proud cancer survivor of over 25 years, she faced every challenge with resilience and grace. Her warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength were a source of light for everyone lucky enough to know her.
Martita is survived by her husband, George; her daughters, MariaValentina and MariaChristianna Haberman; her stepsons, Greg Alan and John Haberman; her siblings, Maria Teresa Fierro Andrade and Adolfo Fierro; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on through each of them — and through every student, Girl Scout, and community member she touched.
As we remember Martha’s extraordinary life, let us honor her by carrying forward the values she lived by: kindness, curiosity, and an unwavering belief in lifelong learning.
What’s your fondest memory of Martha?
What’s a lesson you learned from Martha?
Share a story where Martha's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Martha you’ll never forget.
How did Martha make you smile?