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Jennifer Rubin Obituary

Jennifer A. Rubin of New Windsor, N.Y., entered into rest November 28, 2010 at Danbury Hospital in Danbury. She was 36 years old. Jennifer was born in Patterson, N.J. on February 1, 1974 to Mark L. and Barbara (Ebert) Rubin. Jennifer was an amazingly beautiful person in every aspect of her being. Until the age of 17, she enjoyed life as a vibrant personality who lit up any room she walked into. In 1991, the summer before her senior year in Washingtonville High School, Jennifer was in a tragic automobile accident in which she sustained a traumatic brain injury. Her life was forever changed and she remained severely disabled as a result of her injury. But with all Jenn's limitations, she continued to light up a room with her laughter and big smile. She carried herself with great pride and dignity and had unbelievable courage to move forward with her life and live every day to its fullest. Because of all the special people who cared for and loved her, Jenn woke each morning with a smile on her face, excited to start her day. She touched all who knew her and her ability to capture everyone's heart was beyond compare. Jenn was truly a Blessing and the world around her was made better because she was there. Jennifer is survived by her loving parents, Mark L. and Barbara Rubin of Rock Tavern, N.Y.; sister, Amy and her husband, Jeff O'Connor; nephews, Ryan and Tommy O'Connor, all of Moorestown, N.J. She is also survived by her best friends, Christine and her husband, Patrick Boisvert and their children, Ian, Aaron and Lily of New Milford, and Suzanne and her husband, Scott Benz and their children, Mary, Dianna and Jackson of Danbury. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. in David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, Washingtonville, NY. Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 3, 10 a.m. in David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, Washingtonville, NY. Burial will immediately follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery,Newburgh, NY. Donations may be made in memory of Jennifer A. Rubin to Ability Beyond Disability, 5 Berkshire Blvd, Bethel, CT 06801. Arrangements under the direction of Thomas A. Murray of David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, 20 North Street, Washingtonville, NY 10992, 845-496-9106. For further information or to leave condolences for the family please visit www.davidtfergusonfh.com.

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Published by The News-Times on Dec. 1, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Jennifer Rubin

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Mark Rubin

February 21, 2011

In Remembrance of Jennifer

Millions of years and countless generations of loving fathers and mothers came before us. Each was blessed with a child to whom they carefully entrusted their genetic gift of life, a unique code that comprised all that they had ever been and all they ever were to be. Most are now nameless and faceless, but the love, guidance and caring they showered upon their children made sure that the gift of life was to be safely passed on to those yet to come. In February of 1974, this ancient wonder from ages long past arrived into our unsure but immensely appreciative arms; we called her Jennifer.

Although we were never to know all who had come before us to carry this wondrous gift through time, we realized the immensity of its power and significance of what had been given to us and we loved her with all our heart and soul. With unending patience, love, countless bedtime stories, silly games and songs, careful guidance through the maze of challenges that growing up brought her way and many wonderful heart to heart talks, we nurtured this blessing into a very special young woman. All who met her were warmly touched by the gentle gift that so many in the past had worked so hard to pass on. The warmth of a billion sunrises that came before her was radiated everywhere she went and to all who came into her presence.

In 1991, a terrible twist of fate tried to take this endearing wonder of the human spirit away from us. Through oceans of tears, prayers, unfathomable medical miracles and the gentle nudging of God, Jennifer Ann survived; our gift of the ages was to continue her journey. But this time her path would be very different and infinitely more challenging. Each step was to be made without words to make her thoughts known or the ability to understand what was spoken to her by those around her. Wracked with pain from a thousand wounds to her physical body, she continued to take each step forward to a hopefully better place; it was a very slow and challenging path.

In the spring of 1993, God led us to the place where Jennifer was to continue her passage through time, Squire Court in Brookfield, Connecticut. It was here that He sent His special messengers to carry on the work that medical science could no longer do. Over the course of 17 years a small handful of very special people continued the efforts of those who had come before them. With much time, thoughtfulness, patience, caring and love, our small parcel of life rose from the ashes and once again was to spread her now very unique brand of warmth and sunshine to all those who were fortunate enough to be touched by her.

But for mortals time is not infinite and our journey of life must end. For Jennifer that moment was November 28th, 2010. For those who knew her, the world is now just a little less bright, life a little less happy. Never will a presence like hers again come to be nor will anything ever quite take the place of the light she brought into all of our lives. But in the larger order of things, we must not lose sight of the truly great gifts she worked so hard to leave behind for us. Through her endlessly long path of recovery, she taught us to have patience because not all things that we ask for will come right away. With her genuine appreciation of every simple act of kindness and caring, she showed us that the joy of non-material things is far more powerful than all the riches in the world. And through her body language she taught us that the greatest of love and happiness are felt through the smiles, gentle touches, laughs, hugs and warm glances given by those around us.

After countless millennia, the beautiful chain of life lovingly passed on by all those who came before Jennifer has now been broken. She cannot do her work anymore so only we who are left behind can pick up her gifts and again begin their passage into the future. May each of us warm those whom we encounter with a bright smile, let us laugh uncontrollably at the simplest of pleasures, and give us the strength to reach out to others and gently touch their hearts with our warm glance. Jennifer did all these things without ever uttering a single word. Let us all learn from her and share with those around us these very special gifts from the past that she tried so hard to teach us.

Sue Broughton

December 14, 2010

Peace be with you Jenn. I am a better person just for having known you and I will always remember you. Fly special girl and sing among the angels. XOXOX

Christina Shand

December 7, 2010

Mr.& Mrs Rubin& Amy,I find our sophisticated language horribly inadequate at a time like this, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you

Linda Brown

December 6, 2010

Mark and Barbara, You have been friends so long. I am so saddened by your loss of Jennifer and the terrible accident that changed the lives of so many people years ago. At the same time, your grace through all these adversities inspires me every day. Linda B (California)

December 5, 2010

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Rubin:

I was so very sorry and saddened to hear of your loss of Jennifer. I worked with her for five years at Squire Court and have been back many times in the past year. I cannot imagine Squire Court without her. Whenever I returned she always greeted me with a smile and a wave. My thoughts and prayers are forever with you.

Barbara Snow, Brookfield, CT

Laura Taffet

December 4, 2010

How lucky you were to have had Jennifer for 36 years - she got her strength and courage from both of you and from Amy. Prayers for your peace of heart and healing.

Jeffrey Rocke

December 3, 2010

Mr & Mrs Rubin,
I am sorry to hear about Jen. You are in my family's prayers.

Jeffrey Rocke

December 3, 2010

Mr & Mrs Rubin,
I am sorry to hear about Jen. You are in my family's prayers.

Marilyn Van Tine

December 3, 2010

Mark - I'm so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine anything more painful than losting a child. May faith sustain you during this very difficult time.

December 2, 2010

Dear Mark,Barbara and family,
You have been in my thoughts and prayers these past few days. We have lost a very bright light and I feel so priveledged to have known Jenn and her wonderful family.I'll miss her warm greetings and big smile when I go to Squire Court.

Cindy Tilles

Kimberly Fischer

December 2, 2010

I am so grateful to have been touched by this angel. Although I only knew Jen for a short time, my fondest memory of her was the excitement of coming to my home and then when she was leaving she grabbed my cheeks and hugged me and waved goodbye. She was a ball of light filled with love and always smiling. Rest in Peace.

December 2, 2010

Dear Mark and Barbara and family
I am deeply sorry for your loss I have often thought of you all after jennifer;s accident . You all were marvelous in your love for each other and support of Jennifer
john m collins

Norm & Donna Rainey

December 2, 2010

Dear Mark and Bark, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We are very sorry for your loss.

Norm and Donna Rainey

December 2, 2010

Dear Barbara and Mark,

My heart goes out to you. You are special parents, that made sure Jennifer had a wonderful life.
She willed be missed. My son Matt still refers to Jen as his sister from their time at Squire.
I have wonderful memories of Jennifer greeting me when I visited Squire.

Bless you and your family.
Jan & Matt Gerlach

Priscilla Kennedy-Tudisco

December 2, 2010

We will always remember her beautiful smile and happy spirit. I can still see her and Deb "Trick or Treating" down our long hill....such good friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who loved her...especially her parents (Mark and Barbara) and loving sister, Amy. Priscilla Kennedy (Tudisco) and family

Maria Rossi

December 2, 2010

Dear Mark and Barbara,

I am so sorry for your loss. You have shared your memories of Jennifer and those are the best to hold in your heart. Know that prayers will be said for you and your family at this difficult time.

L Geffon

December 1, 2010

Jenn you will be truly missed by all. We will never forget your smile. RIP

L Boyce

December 1, 2010

To the Rubin Family..
I attended Washingtonville H.S. with Jenn and will never forget her smile. She will always be one of the nicest people that I ever met. RIP Jenn, We will never forget you.

Chrissy Hadgraft

December 1, 2010

Dear Mr and Mrs Rubin,

I was blessed to have known Jennifer through my daughter Amanda. Jenn came for many visits and to have dinner with us and she lite up the room. My life has been profoundly touched by your wonderful daugher and I will miss her beautiful smile and laughter. May the Lord comfort you both during this difficult time.

Many Blessings,

Dianne Ballesty

December 1, 2010

Dear Mark and Amy, Though I never met Jenn I know what love and dedication you showed to her over the years. God bless you and give you peace and strength as well as wonderful memories of a special girl.
With prayers, Dianne

December 1, 2010

Mark ,Barbara and Amy I am so sorry about Jennys death......you know how close she was to me and all the visits I made during her rehab.....love and miss you guys and hope to see you tomorrow if I am feeling well....Love.....Ronald Quadagno

December 1, 2010

So very much we miss you,
Countless tears we cry,
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died.

It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn't go alone,
Part of us went with you,
The day the Creator called you home.

Jenn was adored by all of the past and present Squire Court staff. Every person who had a part of Jenn's life, should be proud of themselves for giving her such a happy life...

Kevin and Debra O'Connor

December 1, 2010

Dear Barbara, Mark and Amy, We are so sorry for your great loss. The few times we met Jenn she was amazingly joyful and truly did light up the room. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you go through these next few days and the days ahead. The pain can be so deep. We are taking good care of Ryan and Tommy while you say good-bye to Jenn. Love to all, Kevin and Debra

December 1, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the Rubin Family and to all those at Ability.....what a sweet angel that we have lost, but that heaven has gained!
Michele Brabant

Janet Walters

December 1, 2010

Dear Mark, Barbara and Amy,
I will always remember Jenn and her big smile and laughter. All of you showed such love to her throughout her life. She will be missed by many.

Lori Ann Ueberroth

December 1, 2010

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”
~Author Unknown

Dear Mark, Barb, and Amy – I was saddened to hear the news of Jen’s passing. Although it has been many years since I moved to South Carolina, I enjoyed hearing updates from Maria and Christine about her progress and growth since my days at Squire Court. Because of her I have been so blessed… I have learned the importance of patience, the preciousness of the moment, the special warmth of a smile, and received the gift of dear friends in my life. Thank you for allowing Jen to be a part of my life and making it better! I will be keeping you all close in heart and in prayer.

Ellen&Anthony LaSita

December 1, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Aaron Boisvert

December 1, 2010

Dearest Jennifer,
You were always like another Aunt to me, always laughing with my family. It is hard for me to see you go so fast. Although I'm not direct family, I feel as though you were and still are one of the closest family members I've had. You're with God now, but you'll be with me forever.
I love you Jennifer Ann

Jessica Sweatt

December 1, 2010

Jenn will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. May you all find comfort in the beautiful memories you shared with your loving daughter, sister and friend!

Yahaira Rodriguez

December 1, 2010

Dear Barbara & Mark,
My sincerest condolences to two wonderful parents,loving family and friends.My prayers with all of you.

Debra Zupko

December 1, 2010

To the entire Rubin Family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss...I have such great memories of Jenn. She was such a large part of my life growing up. Most of my childhood memories involved her and I treasure them dearly. My children have grown up on stories of what Jenn, Jill and I would do together! My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Jerrilyn Pisani

December 1, 2010

To the Rubin family,
I am so sorry to hear of Jennifer's passing. I knew Jennifer in high school and while it has been quite sometime, I will never forget her smile. Your family is my prayers.

Kym Rigney

December 1, 2010

Sweet Jennifer Ann- The world became a darker place without you. You've taught everyone who came in contact with you to slow down and enjoy the smaller things in life. I can only hope and pray that you're in a much better place now. You're huge smile and big laugh will be terribly missed!

Chantel Malloy

December 1, 2010

JENN, so many thoughts so little room. I thought I was suppose to teach you, and never imagined how much you have taught me. I love you and cherish each and every moment that we have shared together and cant wait for the many more that we will have when we met again.

December 1, 2010

Jen,
So go and run free with the angels
Dance around the golden clouds
For the lord has chosen you to be with him
And we should feel nothing but proud
Although he has taken you from us
And our pain a lifetime will last
Your memory will never escape us
But make us glad for the time we did have
Your face will always be hidden
Deep inside our hearts
Each precious moment you gave us
Shall never, ever depart
So go and run free with the angels
As they sing so tenderly
And please be sure to tell them
To take good care of you for me.

Chantel Malloy

December 1, 2010

JENN, so many thoughts and so little room. I thought I would be the one to teach you and I cant describe how much you have taught me. I love you Jenn and will cherish each and every moment that we have spent together and look forward to the ones we will have when we meet again.

December 1, 2010

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Rubin,

Please accept my sincere condolences to your family.
May the good Lord grant Jen eternal rest & everlasting peace.

Sincerely,

Pearl Concepcion
Ability Beyond Disability
Bethel, CT

Thikisha Tallman

December 1, 2010

There are no words great enough to describe Jenn. She had a bright smile that lite the earth and any room. She is free to laugh, to smile and to dance with all of the other angles God has called. To give a sense of comfort is to know that Jenn is at peace, she is resting very graciously in the presence of God! I ask that the Lord would give your family and loved ones comfort and peace in every moment.

December 1, 2010

My dear Barbara and Mark,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your darling, Jenn. I witnessed her growth while with us at Squire. In the past few years, she would recognize and smile at me whenever she saw me. This is a terrible blow to you and your family -- because parents should not witness the deaths of their children; it is not the order of life. I am remembering you in my thoughts and prayers.
Marylou Grillo

December 1, 2010

My condolences to two wonderful parents who loved their daughter unconditonally as well as some caring compassionate staff who will miss her. I will miss her smile.
Anne Gesualdi

Lorraine Higgins

December 1, 2010

Our sincerest heartfelt condolence to the family of Jenn and the wonderful people who gave her a good life filled with joy and love .
Remmber "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord"
Lorraine Higgins ;George Johnson

Joe Cordeiro Jr.

December 1, 2010

Jennifer, words cannot express what I feel let alone finding them. You touched my life forever, i hope you know that.I pray your spirit and memories gives comfort and peace to your loved ones.You were always a pleaser so I know you'll do your best to let them know you're there. All my love Jeffiner.

Renata Cordeiro

December 1, 2010

Don't think of her as gone away -
Her journey has just begun
Life holds many facets
The Earth is only one
Just think of her as resting
From the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days and years
Think how she must be wishing
That we could know today
How nothing but our sadness
can really pass away
And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost-
And she was loved so much.

My sincere condolences.

Jen ,
you are missed by so many people.
Now you are a guardian angel to us all.
RIP.
Love,

Donna Sario

December 1, 2010

God has another angel. Jennifer touched alot of hearts in her brief time on this earth. My heart goes out to her loving family (and extended family the staff who have cared for her and loved her here at Ability).

Bernadette Joseph

December 1, 2010

Words are never enough at a time like this...I know that you will be missed by your family and those who loved you. I pray your family will always know in their hearts what an amazing light you were to this world and that these thoughts will bring them joy in a time of sincere sorrow. Much love and strength to all...Jen, I am fortunate to have met and known you, however brief our time together. (and Christine...hang in there...I know you are feeling sad and lost...I am right here for you...always!!! xoxoxo)

Christine Boisvert

December 1, 2010

I Love You and will miss you each and every day. I don't know how to get through today, tomorrow and the next without your smile and "squeeze". There is a significant hole in my heart. Until we meet again Jennifer Ann.

Tom Murray and the Staff of Ferguson Funeral Home

December 1, 2010

Extending our sincerest condolences.

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