Mary Lou Rosenfelt, a beloved resident of Williamstown, NJ, and the cherished mother of Lisa Federico, has passed away after a prolonged battle with vascular dementia. Mary Lou, who was 66 years old, succumbed to this cruel disease on Monday, July 2, 2024. Her death has left her family and friends in deep sorrow, as they remember a woman who brought joy and warmth to everyone she met.
Mary Lou was born in Philadelphia and spent her early years in Pine Hill, NJ. She was a spirited individual who embraced life with enthusiasm and passion. She graduated from Overbrook Regional High School in 1976, a milestone that marked the beginning of a journey filled with dedication and hard work. After high school, Mary Lou pursued further education at Camden County College, where she earned an associate degree. This academic achievement set the stage for her career as a dental assistant, a role she performed with great care and professionalism. She worked for Dr. Rankin in Cherry Hill, NJ, before retiring to focus on her family and personal interests.
Mary Lou recently moved to Williamstown, NJ, a place where she found peace and happiness in her later years. She was known for her love of pottery, gardening, and baking. These hobbies not only brought her joy but also allowed her to create beautiful and delicious gifts for her loved ones. Mary Lou had a special fondness for the seaside, and she cherished the moments she spent near the ocean, feeling the breeze and listening to the waves. However, what she treasured most was the time spent with her grandchildren, who adored her deeply.
Mary Lou was the beloved wife of Gustave Rosenfelt, with whom she shared a life filled with love and companionship. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Lisa Federico, Roxanne Heil (married to Steven), and Gus Rosenfelt (married to Holly). Mary Lou’s love for her family was boundless, and she devoted herself to their well-being and happiness. Her grandchildren—Justin, Dylan, Logan, Gianna, Dominic, Marissa, Jeremy, and Brendan—held a special place in her heart. She was their loving grandmother, always ready with a smile, a hug, and a word of encouragement.
Mary Lou’s family extended beyond her immediate circle. She was a dear sister to Victor Bianco (married to Cindy) and Bill Horn (married to Donna). Her parents, the late Victor and Mary Bianco, instilled in her the values of kindness and generosity that she carried throughout her life. Mary Lou was also a cherished daughter-in-law to Natividad Rosenfelt and maintained a long-standing friendship with Donna Scheiter. These relationships were a testament to the deep connections she forged with those around her.
The pain of Mary Lou’s passing is deeply felt by her daughter, Lisa Federico, who has expressed her grief and love for her mother. Lisa’s heartfelt words reflect the profound loss that vascular dementia has caused. “I lost my sweet mother to vascular dementia. It’s a cruel thief. It has taken so much from us, stripping my mother of her identity piece by piece. Every day a bit more of her slipped away until the disease finally took her life on July 2, 2024. We miss her more than you can imagine: her advice, her warmth, her unconditional love. I would love to hear her voice and her laughter one more time, but these moments are all gone, stolen by a disease that shows no mercy.”
In a touching tribute, Lisa shared her gratitude for the time she spent caring for her mother. “Mom, I love you. It was a privilege to care for you until you took your final breath. I am glad Grandma came early and prayed by your side all day and night long. We all knew you were tired and you are now resting in peace, knowing we were by your side, every step of the way. It is comforting to know the person you looked at last was Grandma before you closed your eyes forever.”
The family has announced the arrangements for Mary Lou’s funeral, inviting relatives and friends to pay their respects. A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 11th, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at the Farnelli Funeral Home, located at 504 N. Main Street, Williamstown. A service will follow at 6:00 pm, honoring Mary Lou’s life and the love she shared with those around her. Cremation will be held privately, allowing the family a moment of quiet reflection.
Mary Lou Rosenfelt’s death marks the end of a life well-lived, filled with love, kindness, and dedication. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will remember her as a woman of great strength and compassion. Her battle with vascular dementia, though painful, did not diminish the profound impact she had on those who knew her. Mary Lou’s memory will be cherished, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of her life.
As the family navigates this period of mourning, they are supported by the outpouring of love and sympathy from the community. The loss of Mary Lou is a reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones and the enduring strength of family bonds. Her life, filled with joy, laughter, and love, serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for all who knew her.
