Martha Novak Obituary

Martha Adele Novak (née Schultz), devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister & friend died peacefully on September 11th, 2024, at the age of 87 due to complications from Alzheimer’s.

Martha is survived by her daughter, Jane Novak-Cook, son-in-law DeWitt Cook, and grandchildren, Ellen Cook (husband David Burt), De Cook, and David Cook (engaged Margo Dailey). She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Liz Santa-Novak, granddaughter Leah Santa-Ruiz (husband Craig Santa-Ruiz), and great-grandsons Mateo and Joaquin Santa-Ruiz. Additionally, Martha is survived by her sister Althea Sovich, sisters-in-law Donna Laasch and Frances Schultz, and many dear nieces and nephews.

Martha was preceded in death by her dear husband Richard “Lefty” William Novak and her loving son, William “Bill” Allen Novak. She was also preceded in death by her parents Edward & Margaret Schultz and her siblings: Edward Schultz (Sylvia), Dawn Rhode (Clarence), William Schultz (Evelyn), Betty Jean Torma (Paul), Jack Schultz & Ralph Schultz. Her brother-in-law, Don Laasch, also preceded her in death.

Martha was born in Lemont Township, IL on August 15th,1937 at home on the family farm as the second youngest of eight children. She loved growing up on the farm helping to grow crops and raise animals. Martha graduated from Lemont Township High School, Class of 1951, where she made lasting friendships and lifelong memories. Her classmates honored her with the Daughters of the American Revolution Award, which recognizes good citizenship, a reflection of her commitment to her community.

After high school, Martha worked for the Public Service Department. She married her husband Rich in October 1956, and they welcomed a daughter, Jane Ellen followed by a son William “Bill” Allen. Together they shared wonderful years. Raising her children, Martha ran a tight ship at home and was an amazing Mom. Her children never heard her say a negative thing about others while they were growing up. Martha returned to work as her children grew older, working as a bookkeeper, office manager, and secretary at Ludwig Explosives until she retired in 2003.

Martha was an active member of the Lemont community, regularly attending church at St. Cyril & Methodius. She was a lifelong learner and attended classes at the local Junior College. Martha was an avid reader who loved movies and going on hikes and bike rides with her friends and neighbors. She and Rich enjoyed playing cards and being with friends. In retirement, Martha and Rich loved spending time with their family and traveling, especially to the West Coast and Europe to visit their children and grandchildren.

Following the death of her husband in 2009, after 53 years of marriage, Martha relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio to be closer to family. “Grammie” was a loyal fan at all of her grandchildren’s many athletic and school events. She was an active member of the Marielders Senior Citizens Group and attended St. Rose Parish.

Martha had a strong faith and believed in the power of prayer. She was a kind and loyal friend, always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it was preparing a meal, offering a ride, or stopping by for a visit. Martha will be missed deeply by all those who knew and loved her.

In the final chapter of her life, Martha faced Alzheimer's with both grace and strength. The family is immensely grateful for the loving and compassionate care she received from “living angels” at Marjorie P Lee and Deupree Cottages.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024,  from 4 - 7 pm at Markiewicz Funeral Home, P.C. 108 Illinois Street, Lemont, IL. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, at 11:30 am at SS Cyril & Methodius Church in Lemont with burial immediately following at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Episcopal Retirement Services in Cincinnati, www.episcopalretirement.com The Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org, or the Salvation Army www.salvationarmyusa.org