Mary Edna Ertel was born on January 31, 1930, at home in Brookville, Indiana. Loving daughter of Henry and Mary Catherine Reams Bishop. On April 17, 1948, she married Cledith Martin and together they had 3 children. Tragically, Cledith passed away on August 23, 1954, at the age of 27. Years later, Mary found love again with Noel Ertel, with whom she shared over 25 wonderful years of marriage. Mary spent part of her working life at Sperry Rubber and was also the proud owner of the 440 Café located in Brookville. Mary was a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over 50 years, as well as a member of the Whitewater VFW Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary. In her spare time, Mary loved being around people—family, friends, and even strangers. She had a warm, generous spirit and never spoke an unkind word about anyone. She especially enjoyed traveling, visiting steam engine and tractor shows with Noel, and the occasional trip to the casino—affectionately known as “the Boat.” On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the age of 95, Mary passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.
Those surviving who will cherish Mary’s memory include her children, Beverly (Robert) Seymour, Gary (Shellia) Martin, and Cledith (Brenda) Martin; 6 six grandchildren, Tammy, Harold, Gary Jr., Shawn, Cledith H., and Lisa; one step-grandchild, Angela Seymour; sixteen great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; as well as three sisters, Ruby Pennington, Rose Pennington, and Linda Barrett. In addition to her parents and her first husband Cledith, Mary was preceded in death by her most recent husband Noel, as well as eight siblings, Robert, James, Vest, Ed, John, Harold, and Henry Jr, Lilly Hundley.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 10 at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home, 929 Main Street – Brookville from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow immediately after in Maple Grove Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Monica Ariens to support her during her courageous battle with cancer. Donations may be made payable to Monica Ariens and will be gratefully accepted at the funeral home during visitation. Contributions may also be mailed to: Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home – 929 Main Street, Brookville, IN 47012. To sign the online guestbook or to leave a personal memory please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to care for the family of Mary Ertel.