Marleen Schuss

A mother of 6, grandmother of 13, great grandmother of four, soulmate of three, and inspiration to countless others, Marleen was a shining light with the special gift of making anyone in her presence feel like they were the most important person in the world.

Marleen was born on October 28, 1933 in New York City to Harry and Annette Novick, immigrants from Russia and Austria-Hungary. She was raised in Queens alongside her brilliant and beautiful sister Diane Bresky. As an adolescent she was an outstanding student of classical ballet and appeared frequently on the Horn & Hardart Children’s Hour TV program. She danced in ballet performances at Hofstra College where she received her degree in elementary education and psychology. She went on to teach elementary school on Long Island.

When her children were grown, Marleen established her own business in home and fashion design and pursued that career for many years. Expanding her talents, Marleen became a well known party planner for social events on Long Island and New York City. In 1990, Marleen became associated with Ms. New York Senior America, the world’s first and foremost pageant to emphasize and give honor to women who have reached the “Age of Elegance”. Marleen became co-director, and in 2006, she became State Administrator of Ms. New York Senior America. Marleen was a pillar of her community, spending innumerable hours on projects and programs to enhance the lives of seniors. She was an advocate for Veterans and a champion of animal rights. She was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Chapters Network in October 2023.

Marleen is survived by her six children: Spence (Bernard), Preston (Bev), Guy (Luisa), Alana (Danny), Martine (Bruce) and Kyle (Patti); 13 grandchildren: Jared (Kimberlee), Elan (Tammy), Micaela (Josh), Chiara, Braeden (Elissa), Chase, Aria, Graham (Max), Anders, Terren (Hannah), Brett, Cameron, Greyson (Chinmayee); 4 great grandchildren: Maggie, Jax, Reid, and Dane, with more on the way; nephews Marc (Moni) and Hunt (Mindy), niece Heather (Mark), and many grand nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her beloved cats — the ones who lived with her and those she cared for in the community.

We lovingly remember Jerome Halperin, Marleen’s high school sweetheart, husband, and father to her six children. And Bernard Schuss, Marleen’s sweet and devoted husband, who brought her so much joy until his death in December 1988. And later, Robert Geltman, her stalwart, loving companion until his death in December 2022.

Marleen also leaves legions of friends, especially her Cameo Sisters, who immeasurably enriched her life and she theirs.

Long live the Queen.

A chapel service for Marleen will be held Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at 12:00 PM at I. J. Morris, 21 E Deer Park Rd, Dix Hills, New York 11746. Following the chapel service will be an interment at 2:00 PM at Mt Ararat Cemetery, Lindenhurst, NY.