Martha Krivak

Martha M. Krivak, 96, of Lodi, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on March 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her children. She was born on June 19, 1929, in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, to John Starruick and Anna Bobak.

As a young woman, Martha worked as a model in New York City, enjoying the excitement and opportunity of the city. That chapter of her life took a wonderful turn when she met a handsome Marine named Milton Krivak. Their connection was instant and undeniable-they were married within a week and went on to share a lifetime together.

Martha devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family. She took great pride in raising her children and created a home that was always warm, welcoming, and full of love. Her kitchen was the heart of the house, and there was always something delicious cooking. No one ever left her home hungry, and everyone who walked through the door was treated like family. Martha had a natural warmth that made people feel comfortable the moment they met her.

She was also a deeply creative woman who loved all forms of art. Martha spent many happy hours painting folk art and ceramics, crocheting blankets, and handcrafting beautiful quilts-each one made with care and pride. Her garden was another of her great joys. She found peace in tending her flowers and watching them grow and bloom.

Music also filled her life. Among her favorite songs were timeless classics by Patsy Cline and Frank Sinatra, whose voices often provided the soundtrack to her days.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Milton A. Krivak, and her parents, John Starruick and Anna Bobak.

She is survived by her loving children: Milton Bruce Krivak and his wife Lorraine, Deborah Gillen, Elizabeth Dishuk, and Brian Krivak.

She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Andrew Krivak and his wife Ashley; Maggie Geudtner and her husband Matthew; Jacklyn Gillen (deceased); Timothy Gillen and his wife Jessica; Ryan Gillen and his wife Karen; Jessica Jennings and her husband Kenneth; Lesley Dishuk; David Dishuk and his wife Amy; and Derek Dishuk and his wife Emily.

Martha was also blessed with 17 great-grandchildren: Zoey and Andie Krivak; Katherine, Madeleine, and Jack Geudtner; Nia, Evan, and Chloe Arellano; Kassandra, Addison, and Jack Gillen; Kenny IV and Charlie Jennings; Nathan and Logan Dishuk; and Aubree and Weston Dishuk.
Martha lived a long life filled with love, creativity, kindness, and generosity. She gave so much of herself to her family and to everyone lucky enough to know her. Her warmth, her laughter, and the comfort of her home will be remembered always.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace and reunited with those she loved who went before her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial wake service on Sunday March 22, 2026, 12:00-2:00 pm at Di Chiara Funeral Home, 300 Main St., Lodi with a 1:30 pm Chapel Service.