Springfield Dominican Sister M. Carmen Cesario died Feb. 6 at Sacred Heart Convent. She was born in Chicago in 1918, and named Grace by her parents, Carmen and Rose Coconate Cesario. She made her profession of vows in 1952 at Sacred Heart Convent.

Sister M. Carmen is remembered by many Dominican sisters and priests, as well as Viatorian priests and brothers, as a gracious hostess and wonderful cook and baker. Her gifts were appreciated at the Dominican priory in Winona, Minn.; the Viatorian Province Center in Arlington Heights; and at every Springfield Dominican convent where she served.

Sister M. Carmen was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, James; and her sisters, Carol, Joanne, and Rosanne Cesario and Vivian Zamiar. She is survived by one niece and six nephews.

A prayer service and visitation was held on Feb. 9 at Aquinas Center, Sacred Heart Convent, and was followed by a funeral Mass at the convent chapel with Father Peter Witchousky, OP, as celebrant. Morning Prayer and Final Commendation took place on Feb. 10, at Sacred Heart Convent. Burial followed at Calvary Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Dominican Sisters Retirement Fund, 1237 W. Monroe St., Springfield, IL 62704.

The Dominican Sisters and family of Sister M. Carmen were served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home in Springfield.