Sage Nantai David Mars

"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:38-39

Sage Nantai David Mars entered into the presence of our Creator on April 25, 2025. Born to David K. Mars Jr. and Lori (Cesino) Mars, and cherished grandson of David Mars Sr. and Diana (Spears) Mars, and Robert and Angelina (Soave) Cesino. Sage was always grounded in family and was a proud citizen of the Narragansett Tribe. He loved his family and friends fiercely and, above all, his partner Mikaela Hill and their twin daughters, Aura Diana and Sage Madison, who were the heart of his world. They will carry forward his bright light and tenacious spirit.

Sage was a true original—a joyful force of nature with an explorer’s soul. From a young age, he was curious, passionate, and full of wonder about the world around him. That curiosity evolved into a lifelong love for the natural world, and he spent his days with his feet on trails, his hands in the soil, and his eyes always scanning the horizon for the next adventure.

An avid animal lover, Sage had an affinity with his cats, and this care for his pets was part of a broader appreciation for nature. Whether spending time with his animals or quietly observing wildlife, he had a genuine respect for all living things that reflected his deep connection to the natural world.

Sage’s intellect was just as boundless. He was a lifelong learner with a passion for obscure knowledge and a love of sharing quirky facts. Sage was also a logophile—he appreciated words for their meanings, rhythm, and ability to articulate a sentiment with precision. He was fascinated by the world’s mysteries—whether engaging in late-night conversations or diving into a new topic, Sage's love of knowledge never waned, and he always shared what he discovered with infectious enthusiasm. Sage also had a sharp and playful sense of humor—quick with a witty remark or a clever observation, he could make anyone laugh and always knew how to bring lightness to even the heaviest moments.

Sage had a natural eye for beauty and detail that showed in everything he did, whether shaping outdoor spaces with creativity or capturing the world through drawing. In the kitchen, Sage was as meticulous as he was creative. He had a deep appreciation for well-prepared food, quality ingredients, and the care others put into their cooking. He possessed the ability to see and draw out the beauty in the smallest details of the everyday—details too often overlooked by the rest of us. Where many rush past life’s fine details, Sage lingered, listened, and loved them into significance. His attention to the quiet, intricate corners of life revealed a heart that was ever-present and attuned to the wonder of this world. Whether in nature, his hobbies, a moment, or the people he loved, Sage found meaning and magic where others saw only the ordinary. His gift for appreciating the unnoticed was not just a reflection of his keen mind, but of his gentle soul.

Above all, Sage loved. He loved deeply and without reservation. He was a proud and devoted father to his girls—everything he did, he did with them in his heart, and his love for them will continue to shine through their lives. He was also a loving son, grandson, cousin, nephew, and a fiercely loyal friend. Sage had a strong sense of justice—he could not bear to see cruelty or unfairness and was never afraid to speak up for what was right. When Sage loved you, you knew it—you felt it in the way he showed up, the way he listened, and the way he would stand by your side no matter what. He was loyal to his core, a warrior with one of the kindest souls you could meet, and someone whose presence made you feel seen, safe, and valued. He gave his love freely and generously, and the ripple of that love continues outward in every soul he connected with.

The world feels less vibrant without Sage in it—a soul who taught us that true beauty lives in the smallest places. Sage Nantai David Mars lived his life with intention, curiosity, and an open heart. He was the kind of person who made a lasting impression—not through grand gestures, but through his quiet presence, his deep love for those around him, and the way he moved through the world. Though his time here was far too short, Sage filled his 29 years with rich experiences, meaningful relationships, and a spirit that touched everyone who had the joy and privilege of knowing him.

A joint consecration of life for Sage N. D. Mars and his grandfather, David K. Mars Sr., will be held at 1:00 PM on September 13 at the Mars Family homestead at 94 Old Mill Road, Charlestown, RI, 02813. Following the ceremony, all guests are invited to attend a potluck on site. Limited seating will be provided, and the family requests that attendees bring their own chair if possible. A ceremonial fire is being held at the family home until the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Sage’s name to the Narragansett Indian Health Center, 51 Old Mill Road, Charlestown, RI 02813.

With endless love and gratitude,

The Family of Sage Nantai David Mars