Hayden Christopher Martella

PEKIN ~ Hayden Christopher Martella, 3, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2016 as the result of a motor vehicle accident in Huntsville. He was formerly of Pekin. His mother, Alexa Hannig, also passed away as a result the accident.

Hayden was born August 3, 2012 in Peoria, Illinois to Dillon Michael Martella and Alexa Jeanne Hannig.

Surviving are his father, Dillon Martella of Houston, TX; a brother, Evan Martella of Houston; grandparents, Shellie M. (Nick) Kioutas of Manassas, VA, Steven (Rikki Miller) Hannig of Pekin, Beth Martella of Lonoke, AR and John & Leslie Martella of Mesa, AZ; his great-grandparents, Neva & Bud Watson of Manito, Steve (Sherrie Dean) Hannig, Sr. of Pekin, Sally Harbourn of Delavan, Rick & Alice Miller of Green Valley, Lea Kioutas of Schaumburg, Debbie George of Lodi, CA, Hope Davi of El Cajon, CA, Anita Carr of Yellville, AR, Ray Kneller of Estes Park, CO; his great-great-grandparents, Bessie Mayberry of Pekin, Carol Miller of Green Valley and Stamotia Foucydzis of Xionades, Greece and his aunts and uncles, Allina, Cassandra, Nicko, Trystan, Michaela and Colton. He also leaves a great uncle, Bill; a great aunt, Sara and a cousin, Jessica.

Hayden will be remembered as a precious little boy with beautiful, big blue eyes that could make your heart melt. He also had an ornery but loving spirit.

His graveside funeral will be at noon Thursday, May 26, 2016 at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Father Ciprian Sas will officiate. A celebration of life gathering will then be held at 2 p.m. Thursday afternoon at White Fence Estate, 104 Hittle Road, Hopedale. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home, 500 North 4th, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com