Obituary of Dorothy Chrinko
Dorothy Marie Chrinko died peacefully in her daughter’s arms on Tuesday, February 9th in Byram Township NJ.
Born on June 16th, 1930 to the late Joseph and Irene Kerekes, she always fondly remembered memories of growing up in her parent’s home above their grocery store and butcher shop in Highland Park NJ.
She raised her family in Piscataway NJ for over 35 years, and later moved to Hellertown, PA. She then returned to Highland Park for the last few years of her life being loved and cared for by her dedicated daughter Rene. Dorothy spent the last few weeks of her life at Cranberry Lake being pampered, spoiled and cared for by her daughter Leslie and her Boo, Keith Bixby. With her devoted daughter-in-law, Diane always available to pitch in at a moment’s notice. This was truly a great blessing and those precious moments together will always be treasured.
Dorothy was very proud of her Hungarian heritage and loved preparing Hungarian delights such as Chicken Paprikas and kiflis for her children and grandchildren. She married her high school sweetheart Robert J. Chrinko who went to Heaven on August 12th, 2012. They were a couple with movie star good looks and vivacious personalities who worked diligently to build up their floral business most of their adult lives. Her passions in life were her eight children, twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
She was a mother to all, especially to Meg Alexander and Anne Campbell, childhood friends of her daughters who she welcomed as part of her family.
She loved her career designing and creating beautiful floral arrangements and serving her home town community as the original owner of Robert’s Florals for decades. The Jersey shore was her home away from home and brought her incredible happiness. She was always known to be kind, creative, outspoken, completely dedicated to her faith, incredibly sweet and loving and lived her life out loud. Dorothy was an incredibly strong, independent woman and a steadfast example for her children. She truly loved life! The world has lost an amazing and brave soul but Heaven has gained an incredible angel.
Predeceased by her dearly departed daughter, Chrissie of Cape Coral, FL; surviving are her children, Darcy Chrinko of Sea Bright NJ, Robert Chrinko Jr. and wife Diane of Somerville, Mimmy Mitchell of Belmar NJ, Leslie Banfitch of Bridgewater NJ, Patrick Chrinko and wife Sarah of Quakertown PA, Karen Carlon and husband John of Piscataway NJ, and Rene Horn of Bridgewater NJ.
She will also be missed by her beloved Grandchildren, Jennifer, Robbie, Noelle, Eric, Billy, Derek, Kyle, Hunter, Jake, Patrick, Christian, Laci and Spencer. She will also be remembered as GG mom to Kylie, Raven Christine and Charlie.
Dorothy is also survived by her Cherished and loved nieces Marilyn and Kathy Kaszarda.
Funeral services are private and under the direction of Piscataway Funeral Home.
