Martin L. Chesterson, 68, of Crawfordsville died Tuesday, May 16 in IU Arnett Hospital from complications following surgery.

Marty was born September 19, 1948 in Crawfordsville to Fred and Mary Frances Weaver Chesterson.

A life-long Montgomery County resident, he graduated from Waveland High School in 1967. Marty and his high school sweetheart, Linda Keys, were married on February 11, 1968. Marty entered the United States Marine Corps on May 8, 1968. He was so proud to serve his country as a Marine and bravely completed a yearlong deployment to Vietnam in 1969.

Following his discharge in 1970, Marty and Linda established their home in Waveland. Their family grew to include three sons; Paul, Brian and Mark. Marty went to work for Inland Container Corporation in 1974 and retried from his position in the shipping department in 2005.

He enjoyed several years working at Rock Point Church in the maintenance department and most recently was employed by Town and Country Home Center.

Always a farm boy at heart, he loved the outdoors. While he enjoyed hunting, his passion was fishing with his boys and anyone else who would like to go along.  Annual fishing trips to Neebish Island, Michigan were the highlight of every summer. Just recently he spent a week fishing with family at Lake Shelbyville in Illinois.

He realized a long-time dream last April 24 when he was chosen to participate in the Greater Lafayette Veterans Honor flight to Washington DC.

Most precious to him of all was his relationship with Jesus Christ. He loved Him so! Sharing his love for Him in his quiet, often humorous and always sincere way had a lasting impact. But most profound of all was the bold way he lived his life as he continued to mature in his faith. He served as a faithful member for many years at First Baptist Church and then at Rock Point Church.

Marty will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda; Sons Paul (Mindy) of Crawfordsville and Brian (Deonn) of Brownsburg and daughter in law Heather Chesterson of Crawfordsville.  Bothers James (Karen) Chesterson and Randy (Susan) Chesterson, both of Terre Haute. Grandchildren Meagan, Tim, Nicole and Julia as well as many other family members and a life-long multitude of friends.

Among the many family and friends joyfully awaiting him in Heaven is his son, Mark.

A Celebration of his life will be held 10:00am Saturday at Rock Point Church with Pastors Terry Thompson and Bruce Jones officiating. Visitation will be from 4-8 Friday at the church.  Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery South with military rites.

Memorial contributions may be made to Greater Lafayette Honor Flight, PO Box 275, Lafayette, IN 47902-0275