Josephine Christenson

Josephine R. Christenson, known affectionately as “Joan,” passed away peacefully on August 3, 2024, at the age of 91. Born to Emma and Frank Gebbia in Brooklyn, NY on September 4, 1932, as a girl she navigated the challenges of the Great Depression and her parents’ divorce. Following her mother’s remarriage after World War II, the family relocated to Asbury Park, New Jersey, where Joan crossed paths with her future husband, Marlen “Chris” Christenson, a farmer from North Dakota. They married in 1954 and settled in Neptune City, where they raised their two daughters, Marlena and Lorraine (Jara), and hosted many gatherings of family and friends.

Joan had a strong work ethic and held various positions throughout her life, including serving as a summer hostess at Vic’s in Bradley Beach, working at S & H Green Stamps in Asbury Park, and dedicating many years to Campers of America in Neptune, where she was a sales assistant until her retirement.

After her husband’s passing, Joan found solace at Poplar Village in Oakhurst, where she cherished joyful moments with friends and family from the neighborhood. Her pastimes included visits to Monmouth Racetrack, games of cards, walks along the boardwalk, reading, searching for yard sale treasures, and indulging in Chinese buffets. Joan lived in Oakhurst until Tropical Storm Irene struck in 2011, which flooded the area and necessitated Joan’s move to Manahawkin where she could be closer to her daughters.

In June 2022, Joan suffered a challenging fall and subsequent stroke that led to her inability to live independently. She received compassionate care at Seacrest Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Little Egg Harbor until her passing.

Joan will be fondly remembered by her daughters, Marlena Christensen of Barnegat Light, and Lorraine Jara (Rod) of Barnegat; her sister Rae Brougher (Charles) of Goodyear, Arizona; her brothers Leonard DiMatteo of Whiting, NJ, Frank DiMatteo of Wisconsin, and John Gebbia of Bronx, NY. She is predeceased by her sister, Eve Farrell, and brothers Joseph and Frank Gebbia.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Carly Jara of Dobbs Ferry, NY; Catherine Maloff of Astoria, NY; Christopher Jara of Barnegat, NJ; and Michael Maloff (Caitlin) of Louisville, KY; great-grandchildren Archie and Oliver Maloff; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral service honoring Joan’s life will be held at Ocean Funeral Home in Ocean, NJ, on Thursday, August 8, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to any local food pantry in memory of Joan.