RoseMarie V Peterkin

RoseMarie Peterkin, born August 20, 1945, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and service to her family and community.

Beloved wife of the late Elliott Peterkin.  Devoted mother of Christine Cetrulo, her husband Paul, Sean Gibbons, his wife Johanna, Amy Hommen, her husband Bill, and Brian Peterkin. Proud and cherished grandmother of Julia Hommen, Zachary Gibbons, Alexander Gibbons, James Cetrulo, Sophia Cetrulo, Theo Peterkin, and Tessa Peterkin, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

RoseMarie dedicated much of her life to uplifting others, most notably through her work with the Best Friends Program in Newark, which she established and led from 1989 to 2009. The program focused on empowering adolescent girls through self-respect, self-care, and future planning. Under RoseMarie’s leadership, the program grew to serve 1,900 children and helped reduce teenage pregnancy and increase college acceptance rate in Newark by over 40%. Her work included mentoring, organizing enriching activities such as trips and camping experiences, and bringing in motivational speakers to inspire young people. Because of her tireless efforts, hundreds of children lives were changed for the better.  RoseMarie’s impact was so profound that it led to the creation of a companion “Best Men” program for boys.

Above all, RoseMarie will be remembered for her compassion, determination, and unwavering commitment to helping others realize their potential. She touched countless lives and leaves behind a lasting legacy in both her family and her community.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Monday, April 13th from 4-7pm.  Funeral on Tuesday, April 14th, assembling at the funeral home at 10:15am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover at 11:15am, which will be celebrated for both RoseMarie and Elliott.

In lieu of flowers donations could be made in RoseMarie's name to Racing to End Alzheimer's, Racing To End Alzheimer's - Racing To End Alzheimer's

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