Ethelene I. Martin

Ethelene Irene Martin, 101, of Mackinaw, IL and recently Hopedale, IL, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Hopedale Nursing Home.  Ethelene was born January 6, 1925, in Deer Creek, IL, the daughter of Will and Esther May Lander Hasty. She graduated from Danvers High School in 1942. She married Clyde J. Martin on January 11, 1945. They were married for 75 years before his passing on August 18, 2020.

She is survived by one daughter, Susan (Dale, deceased) Zierten of Racine, WI and four sons Larry (Patricia) Martin of Woodstock IL, Bob (Donna) Martin of Ballwin MO, Dan (Janet) Martin of Morton IL and Tom (Colleen) Martin of Farmington IL; grandchildren, Michael (Tara) Martin, Jessica Zierten, Joe (Traci) Martin, Andrew (Erin) Martin, Cara (Marc) Stewart, Christopher (Meghan) Moody, Blaire (Brett) Montgomery, and Paige (Nathan) Smith; 15 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Eldon Hasty, and three sisters Margaret England, Lorene Yoder, and Eva Zook.

Ethelene was a member of Mackinaw Christian Church since 1952.  She served as chairman of the Deacons and various other committees, as well as leading and helping prepare church dinners and funeral lunches for many years. 

She was a cook in Mackinaw Grade School from 1964-1979.  She was a member of the Minier Sewing Club and Mackinaw Bridge Card Club.  She and Clyde enjoyed Ballroom dancing and went to dances throughout central Illinois. They also had many memorable trips and vacations.

Ethelene dearly loved her husband, children and her many grandchildren, as well as her siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends. One of her greatest joys was hosting her family in her home for delicious meals. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

We want to thank the staff of Hopedale Commons Assisted Living and Hopedale Nursing Home for their tender and loving care. Ethelene wanted to thank Dr. Matt Rossi for his years of special care.

Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Mackinaw Christian Church with Pastor Stephanie Himmel officiating. Visitation begins 9:30 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in Mackinaw Township Cemetery.

Memorials and donations can be made to the Mackinaw Christian Church or Hopedale Commons Assisted Living.

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