Eleanor Bertuch

Eleanor was a woman of extraordinary kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. She lived her life as a reflection of Christ's love- always putting others before herself, offering comfort without being asked, and giving freely of her time, resources and heart. Her faith was not just something she believed but something she lived everyday. She lived each day with an unwavering faith in God's plan.

Eleanor was deeply involved in her church, Good Shepherd American Reformed Catholic Church in Toms River. She faithfully served as a greeter, welcoming everyone with warmth and kindness. In fact it was Eleanor who started this tradition.

For over seven years, Eleanor was a Hospice care volunteer. As a volunteer, Eleanor chose to sit with and offer comfort and love to those people who had no one in their final moments.

Her heart extended especially to those in need- she cared deeply for the homeless; regularly donating food and clothing. She has supported St Jude Children's Hospital for over three decades. Eleanor even made space in her heart and home for " my cat", a feral cat she loved dearly and cared for every single day until the end. Her devoted husband, Ron, will continue to carry on all of Eleanor's charitable missions.

Eleanor was known for carrying around Amazon Gift Cards everywhere she went , ready to help someone quietly and without recognition. Giving was second nature to her.

A devoted mother, grandmother and wife, she found her greatest joy in caring for her family. Her love was unconditional, her presence steady, and her prayers constant. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel seen, valued and loved. Eleanor cherished her granddaughters Sydney and Alexandra. They were her "heartbeat", her pride, her joy, and a constant source of happiness. Her love for them knew no bounds.

Her church was not simply a place of worship, but a true family to her. Through her faith community, Eleanor formed friendships that were without measure- friends who became like family, bound together by faith, love and fellowship. She loved her church family wholeheartedly, cherished the relationships she built there, and found great joy and strength and belonging among them.

Charitable in both spirit and action, Eleanor quietly helped many throughout her life, never seeking recognition. She believed deeply in serving others, trusting God completely, and walking humbly in faith. Her trust in Jesus gave her peace, strength and hope- especially in difficult times.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing she is fully healed and rejoicing in heaven. As scripture promises, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the Joy of your Lord" (Matthew 25:23)

Eleanor is survived by her beloved husband, Ronald Bertuch, of over 67 years. By her daughters Elizabeth Bertuch (Barry Parker) , Kristine Kesselman (nee Bertuch); and her granddaughters Sydney Kesselman (Kevin McCarthy) and Alexandra Bertuch-Wallace.

She will be deeply missed but her love, faith, and kindness will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Cremation will be held privately. A memorial service is to be announced for a later date and time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eleanor's memory to the Good Shepherd American Reformed Catholic Church , Toms River, NJ or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.com/donate). Condolences and tributes for the Bertuch family can be left on this website.