Marlene R. Kistenberg

Marlene was born on May 5th 1938 in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Washington Heights, NY with her sister (Anne) and parents (Harvey and Gertrude). She graduated from the High School of Music & Art in NYC, and later graduated from Hunter College with a Master’s Degree in Art.

Marlene was a very talented artist, as well as a professional model in her early years and one of her claims to fame was being the model for Muriel Cigars. She later worked in sales within the Garment and Gift Industries, cultivating many long-lasting relationships. Marlene loved to travel the world and experience new adventures; traveling to such places as Africa, South and Central America, as well as all over Europe and the United States. She also loved the game of tennis, both as a fan as well as a player, which she played weekly for many years.

Marlene was a true New Yorker, living there for the majority of her life and taking advantage of the food and culture that is found in NYC. She recently moved to CT, along with her sister (Anne), to be closer to her nephew (Andrew), niece (Amanda) and great nieces (Bryn and Blake); after all, family was always extremely important to her.

Marlene always lit up the room she was in, and brought joy and exuberance to everyone she came into contact with.

Marlene is preceded in death by Martin Steinhandler (Brother-in-Law), Gertrude Kistenberg (Mother) and Harvey Kistenberg (Father). She is survived by her sister (Anne Steinhandler), nephew (Andrew Steinhandler), and nieces (Bryn and Blake Steinhandler).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Marlene's name to The American Cancer Society.

A Graveside Service will be held at Riverside Cemetery, 12 Market St, Saddle Brook, NJ, on April 23, 2026, at 12:00 pm.

Marlene's family will be Sitting Shiva on Friday 4/24 from 11am to 6pm at 41 Copperfield Dr, Madison, CT.