Marty was born in Bakersfield, California on September 12, 1947, to Martin Stephen Jelacich Sr. and Katherine (Ivancovich) Jelacich. He grew up in Delano, California with his younger brother Kenny where he developed many lifelong friendships. Marty was very proud of his Croatian heritage.
Marty attended Delano High School where he enjoyed playing football as starting offensive tackle, basketball and his favorite sport, baseball, as a champion catcher. In high school Marty worked part time in the Men’s apparel business, which would be the start of his successful 50 year career in clothing sales.
After graduating high school in 1965 he attended junior college for one year before he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served on the destroyer USS Frank E. Evans during the Vietnam War.
Following his service, Marty moved to Fresno to attend Fresno State, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1972. During college he continued his employment in the apparel business, working in sales for Walter Smith’s clothing company.
Marty joined The Van Heusen Company following graduation and loved every moment of it. He was a natural at sales and won many awards from the company as a top salesman. He loved his job and loved wearing a suit and tie - he was a true GQ man. When he finally retired from the men’s clothing business, Marty found a calling where he could help people and still dress up in his suit and tie, working for Whitehurst Funeral Home for over 8 years.
In 1979 Martin met the love of his life, Angela, and together they raised their three children Monica, Jill and Jared. During these busy years of work travel and family life, Marty cherished attending the kids’ sports games, enjoying family dinners and serving his parish, Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Marty was actively involved in the church for many years, leading fundraisers, participating in the men’s club and building fund committee, and proudly sporting his Head Usher red coat.
Marty looked forward to family trips to the coast and weekend kayaking adventures. He loved watching Fresno State games and barbequing on the weekends.
This month, Marty and Angela were blessed to celebrate 42 years of marriage. He will be remembered for his generosity, integrity and the love he shared with his friends and family.
He is survived by his loving wife Angela, mother Katherine, brother Kenny (and his wife Linda), children Monica, Jill (and her husband Erik) and Jared, grandchildren: Tayler, Brianna (and her husband Bradley), Brooklyn and Cameron, great granddaughter Athena, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his Father Martin and in-laws Vito and Liz Pantaleo.
Services will be held on Monday November 6, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hinds
A Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held for Martin on Monday, November 6, 2023 at 9:30 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 355 E. Champlain Drive, Fresno, CA 93730, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Jelacich family.
