Dawn Ann Martinek, 62 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. She was born December 13, 1962, in Burbank, IL to Mathew and Alona (Miehlke) Martinek. Dawn graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with a bachelor’s degree, and made her career as a Business Analyst, retiring from Argo Group US. She was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, where she served as a youth minister, and assisted with the Angel Tree, Hospitality and Backpack ministries. Dawn enjoyed baking, and loved animals, but she will be best remembered as the #1 Aunt to her beloved nieces and nephews. Dawn had a big heart and a giving nature, which will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. She will be dearly missed.
Dawn is survived by her daughter, Leila Balch-Martinek; siblings: Paul (Janel) Martinek, Ken (Janice) Martinek, Howard (Dianne) Martinek, Donna (Michael) Piernikowski; twin-sister, Nina Bender; many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; and her dog, Ember. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and great niece, Keegynn.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 505 Bullseye Lake Road, Valparaiso, IN, with a memorial service beginning at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dawn’s name to Hospice of the Calumet Area, 600 Superior Avenue, Munster, IN 46321.
GUESTBOOK
Dawn you have always been in my heart. You'll be missed by many sis. I love you. May you be with mom now. -Randall Szmanesky
-Donna Piernikowski
Dawn was a wonderful, positive presence at our church, St. Andrew's. She was warm and friendly and was such a help to those in need. Her friendship with and great help to our church matriarch Nola ended only with Nola's death. She will be missed. -Cindy Rutz
We love you Dawn. Love and hugs to you and your family. You were one of our favorite twin cousins. You always made us laugh and gave great big hugs. You will always be missed and loved. -Trisha Allgood
I thank God for the precious moments i was able to spend with you (cousin Dawn). Although we lived in different states, whenever we got together or spoke on the phone we never skipped a beat! We'd just pick up where we left off and enjoyed the opportunity to fellowship together. Your amazing bright smile lit up every room you entered! And your jovial personality was contagious to everyone you met! When I think of you, my heart swells up with joy and gratitude for the short but sweet times we were able to spend together over the years. We will miss you precious cousin! Thank you for always exemplifying Christ by teaching us all how to love one another just as Jesus loves each of us! Praying for peace and comfort over everyone as we celebrate you and the Godly example you always shared with us! Love you all! -Darlene Akeroyd
Dawn was the funniest person I knew. It's so hard to say that in the past tense. Omg we would laugh so hard!!!! I can still hear her laugh. Our cheat days would consist of McDonald's filet o' fish and Shamrock shakes. I would joke with her that she should work for the FBI because she would ask the most insightful questions and never forget anything! Haha!! I'm fairly certain she had a hand in selecting the next pope! I am really going to miss you my friend. Leila and family, if you need anything you know where to find me. Xoxo -Carolyn Carter
Our deepest sympathy too the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. -Pete and Debbie Copanos
Jim & I would like to express our sincere condolences to the Martinek family in the loss of their Sister Dawn. We know, only wonderful memories of her will fill your hearts. May she be at peace. Sincerely, -Felicia Koonce & Jim Riordan
