Martha is the third of the Frederick children. Also born in Harrisville, Michigan, Martha grew up at attended schools in Alcona County. Graduating in 1972, Martha attended Central Michigan University for her undergraduate studies, graduating summa cum laude in 1976.

In 1977 Martha married Randel Z. Clapsaddle in Glennie in the same church she had attended since childhood. She and Randy settled in Big Rapids, Michigan where Randy attended Pharmacy School at Ferris State University. Following his graduation they moved to Holt, Michigan where Randy began working. In 1979 Martha was admitted to the Veterinary School at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. She graduated in 1983 and began practicing in the local area.

Martha and Randy have stayed in the Lansing area since then with Randy working at a major hospital and Martha working in a local veterinary clinic.

Martha and Randy are the proud parents of two children, Jared and Taryn.