Obituary of Marian A. Berntsen

North River: Marian A. Berntsen, 93, formerly of North Creek and Island Heights, NJ, passed away peacefully Sunday, February 23, 2014 at her daughter’s lodge atop Garnet Hill. Born August 25, 1920 in New York City, she was the daughter of the late Thorwald and Anna (Knudsen) Antons. Marian spent her youth in Staten Island and was a 1938 graduate of Port Richmond High School. She then worked a secretary in the Army Air Corps during WWII before obtaining a degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. Marian later became a pattern maker and national designer for notable fashion companies, including Mr. Pants. She wed Thorleif Joseph Berntsen on December 6, 1941; the couple was married for nearly 63 years before his passing October 25, 2006. For more than 40 years, Marian was a member of the North River United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school and accompanied church services on the piano and organ. She was also an accomplished artist, and long-term member of the Ocean County Art Guild; there she devoted her time and talent to help others in their pursuit of art. Besides her parents, and beloved husband, Marian was predeceased by two granddaughters, Meegan Fosdick and Chelsea Eterginoso. She is survived by four daughters, Annette Gardner of Dallas, PA, Beatrice Jay and her husband, Stanley, of Staten Island, Carol Fosdick and her husband, Jeff, of North River, and Dorothy Eterginoso and her husband, Richard, of Staten Island; eight grandchildren, Matthew and Jonathan Runquist, Ralph Gardner, Alison and Eric Jay, and Arianne and Josie Fosdick, Todd and Sheridan Millington, and Rylee Eterginoso; seven great-grandchildren, Connor, Addison, Anders, Hannah, Haven, Winifred, and Myles. At Marian’s request there will be no calling hours scheduled. The family is planning a local memorial service for the spring. Marian’s earthly remains will be buried alongside her husband in North River Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in her memory to the American Heart Association, Arthritis Foundation, or an animal charity of one’s choice. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book and condolences.