Martha Ignarski Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Martha Ignarski (nee Smigiel), “only my attorney knows my real age”, of Schererville, previously of Merrillville, passed away on September 1, 2021, after a long and courageous battle with Hodgkins Lymphoma. She was preceded in death by her husband, Stan Ignarski (1999), her parents Frank & Balbina Smigiel, her sister Jenny Smigiel, and her niece Marcy Hoover. Also followed in death by her sister Millie Sielski on September 5, 2021 and her husband, Wally. She is survived by her children, Stacie (Pat) Reardon of Schererville, Stan (Pam) Ignarski of Lemont, Illinois, Phil Ignarski of Crown Point, and Elaine (John Zaboyan) Ignarski of Crown Point. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren, Sean Reardon, Christopher Reardon, Megan (Austin) Sutter, Daniel Reardon, Patrick Reardon, Jonathan (Kali) Ignarski, Anna Ignarski, William Ignarski, as well as her great-grandchildren, Finn and Maggie Sutter. Also surviving is her nephew Les (Donna Schwartz) Sielski, her goddaughter Patti (John) Tompi and family, and the Rutkin family. Martha was a member of Saints Peter & Paul Parish for over sixty years. Together with her husband Stan, they were longtime benefactors of Saints Peter & Paul, as well as Andrean High School. Martha grew up in Gary in an apartment that was above the commercial building her parents owned, that housed several businesses including “Frank’s Tap”, the family’s longtime establishment. She was a graduate of Froebel High School and forged many lifelong friendships while there. Martha devoted herself to the well-being and care of her family. She will always be remembered for having the sweetest disposition ever, as well as her uncanny sense of humor. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Jenny Lis, Martha’s longtime caregiver and guardian angel. Jenny’s compassion, dedication and attention to detail allowed Martha to transition with grace and dignity. We are eternally thankful. We would also like to thank the staff of Hospice of the Calumet Area. Their dedication to “Magic Martha” spanned well over seven years, and their commitment to our mother did not go unnoticed. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Calumet Area, Andrean High School, or to the donor’s choice. Visitation Saturday, September 18, 2021 at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point from 9:30-11:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 12:30 p.m. at Ss. Peter and Paul, 5885 Harrison St., Merrillville. Services will conclude at the church. www.burnsfuneral.com