Anne Martinjak

Anne Martinjak, cherished wife and mother, beloved friend, and dedicated homemaker passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, at the Hospice of Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. Born on August 24, 1947, in Winchester, Massachusetts, Anne was the youngest in her family and embodied a spirit of warmth and compassion that endeared her to all who knew her. As a teenager she would spend countless hours with her dad cruising the harbor, fishing on his boat, and bartering for lobster which instilled in her a great love of the ocean.

Anne earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, but her true calling came in the form of her unwavering devotion to her family. She often said she was born to be a mom; her children were her greatest accomplishments, and her love for them was the cornerstone of her life. Anne was always there for her family, ensuring they felt supported and valued.

Her strong faith in Jesus Christ was exemplified by her caring and loving nature. To paraphrase Will Rogers: she never met a person she didn’t like, and could talk to at length. Once you met Anne, you might think you’ve known her your whole life. She had an incredible memory and if you were more than a passing acquaintance, you would probably get a birthday card from her every year. If you were ailing, she would send you a thoughtful card. She made sure to show her appreciation to those who took that extra step or did something kind for her. As her hearing deteriorated, she could no longer hear sermons at church, but would watch her favorite pastors on TV using closed captions; and read her Bible daily. Her sharp wit was complimented by a good sense of humor that she always injected into her conversations. Not long before her passing, with a straight face, she told her best friend: “Jackie, I want you to go to Target and get me a new body”.

Anne’s interests were as colorful as her personality. She loved to bake, especially sugar cookies for every holiday and delighted in cooking Italian dishes. Her love for plants shone through with her fondness for indoor and outdoor gardening. In her free time, she could often be found enjoying crossword puzzles, a pastime that brought her joy and relaxation. She had a love of beagles, particularly those that needed rescuing, and adopted several over the years to be her loyal companions.

She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Frank Robert Martinjak, her sons David (Marina Ciavatta) Martinjak and Greg (Alicia) Martinjak, and her treasured grandchildren, Aria and Mae Martinjak. Also grieving her loss are her brother, David Van Ummersen, her sisters-in-law, Kathy Martinjak and Patricia (Mark) Dewey, and her royal beagle, Basil.

Anne’s legacy is further enhanced by the memories of family members and friends who shared endearing moments with her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Yolanda Van Ummersen, as well as her brother, Frank Van Ummersen, and sisters-in-law, Claire and Pat Van Ummersen.

In remembering Anne, we celebrate her remarkable life, her genuine caring nature, and her unyielding love for her family. Though she has departed from this world, the kindness and laughter she shared will resonate in the hearts of all who loved her, and in the hands of the Lord.

Mueller Funeral Home is honored to serve the Martinjak family.