Martha Cesavice

Martha “Marti” Cesavice, 82, of South Bend entered rest on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, with family by her side. She was born in Nappanee to Levi and Lydia Ann (Miller) Slabaugh on October 8, 1942, and later married George Cesavice III, who preceded her in death on April 7, 2022.

Surviving are their children, Mike (Char) Hooley, Marcia (Kevin Hershberger) Hooley, and Sheila Hooley, all of Goshen, along with Christopher (Teresa) Cesavice, Sean Cesavice, Joshua (Nikki) Cesavice, and William Cesavice. Marti is also survived by four siblings: Frieda (Glen) Burkholder, Raymond (Linda) Slabaugh, Lonnie (Verba) Slabaugh, and Jerry (Sara) Slabaugh, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, George, a young daughter, Teresa Hooley, and brothers, Delbert, Marvin, and Leroy Slabaugh.

 Marti was a woman of unwavering faith and devotion, deeply rooted in her spiritual life as a cherished member of St. John's Catholic Church in Goshen. Her vibrant personality and joyful spirit were evident in her many unique passions and traditions. She had a playful love for lottery scratch-off tickets, making them a staple in birthday cards, thoughtful gifts, and road trip adventures, needing to find gas stations along their route to buy another ticket. An avid Notre Dame football fan, Marti turned game days into family events, eagerly calling family members during halftime to share her thoughts and excitement about the game. Her nurturing spirit extended to her beloved collections of angels, which filled her home with grace, and her flourishing array of plants, nurtured by her exceptional green thumb. Marti’s warmth, humor, and dedication to faith and family created lasting memories for all who were fortunate to share in her life.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place with a private family gathering scheduled later. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Elkhart County Humane Society of St. John’s Catholic Church, Goshen.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Marti’s life, or extend a message of comfort to her family, please visit the Guestbook tab.

Psalm 23 NIV: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.