Norbert P. Gaelen

It is with tremendous sadness that the family of Norbert P. Gaelen announces his passing on August 10, 2016.

Born in 1926 in Newark, NJ, Norbert graduated from Penn State University in 1947, with a degree in industrial engineering. Shortly thereafter, he joined the family business, O.Berk, located at that time in Newark, NJ. Norbert assumed third-generation ownership of O.Berk in 1951, where he led the steady expansion of the company for the next 59 years.

In 1969, Norbert was elected President of the National Association of Container Distributors (NACD). In 1995, Norbert Gaelen was awarded the distinction of being named that year’s NACD Person of Achievement, only a short time before the celebration of his 50th anniversary with O.Berk in 1997.In 2003, Norbert was inducted into the Packaging Hall of Fame by the NJ Packaging Executives Club (NJPEC), a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, passion, and dedication to his business, his vendors, his employees, and his customers.

Norbert and his wife of 66 years, Audrey, have been involved in a multitude of philanthropic endeavors throughout their years together. One of Penn State’s most generous donors, Norbert’s contributions to the University are many. Avid art collectors and connoisseurs of fine art for more than 50 years, the Gaelens were benefactors of the Gaelen Gallery East and West in West Orange and Whippany. They also donated their collection of American Indian Pottery to the Montclair (NJ) Art Museum. In addition, the annual Gaelen Juried Art Show & Sale has offered local artists a unique opportunity to showcase their talent for the past 16 years.

Community Jewish philanthropy was of paramount importance as evidenced by his sitting on the board of the JCC, JHS, New Jersey Jewish News, UJC and many boards within the MetroWest Federation system. In addition, Norbert and Audrey have been major supporters of NCJW/Essex, JFS, Rachel Coalition and the Montclair Art Museum of which he was a board member.

Norbert leaves behind a lasting legacy of love for his faith, family and friends, devotion to his business, passion for the entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to philanthropic pursuits. He has left a void in the lives of all who were blessed to know him and he will be missed.

He is survived by his wife, Audrey, children Marc (Debbie) and Meryl (Ron), grandchildren Jordan, Jonathan, Adam, Alex, Sara, Hana and great-grandson Henry.

A Funeral Service will be held 1:00PM Friday at Temple B’nai Jeshurun 1025 South Orange Ave, Short Hills. Burial will follow at B’nai Jeshurun Cemetery, Hillside. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bernheim Apter Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, Livingston.

Donations may be made to the Gaelen Art Show Endowment Fund at www.jccmetrowest.org