Marion Julia van Diepen

Marion Julia van Diepen (née Curran), known lovingly as “Nan,” passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, in Woodbury, New Jersey, at the age of 83. She leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering devotion to her family, remarkable strength, sharp wit, and a generous spirit that touched all who knew her.

Born on May 22, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Marion was the cherished daughter of Catherine and William Curran. The only daughter among four children, she shared a close and lifelong bond with her three brothers, William, Lawrence, and John, all of whom predeceased her. She remained deeply connected to her extended family of nieces and nephews throughout her life.

Marion was a proud graduate of John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls’ High School. She later worked for CWA Local in the Bourse Building, where—unbeknownst to her at the time—she would meet her future husband, Joel H. van Diepen. The two were married on May 30, 1964, and built a life centered on love and family. Together they raised their two beloved daughters, Julia A. and Janice M. van Diepen.

Marion’s greatest joy was her family. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren: Juliana Levine (née McGowan) and her husband, Dan Levine; Joel McGowan and his girlfriend, Brittany Fearon; and Jonathan McGowan and his wife, Catherine McGowan (née Casey). Her family continued to grow with the addition of five great-grandchildren—Lennon, Jude, Leo, Casey, and Luke—with a sixth expected in April 2026.

A longtime resident of Woodbury, Marion especially treasured her time at the family shore house on 21st Street in Ocean City, New Jersey. She loved hosting family and friends at “2101,” where countless cherished memories were made. She enjoyed strolls along Asbury Avenue, dinners at The Crab Trap, and her favorite summer treat—chocolate-covered blueberries from Rauhauser’s, made only when the blueberries were at their peak. She also delighted in trips to the Bahamas, the thrill of a good slot machine or scratch-off ticket, and even the simple satisfaction of a perfectly folded load of laundry.

Naturally funny and full of personality, Marion brought laughter and light to those around her. She was known for spirited political debates, her clever New Year’s sayings about what the year ahead might bring, and her deep love of animals—especially dogs and cats. Above all, she found joy in making others happy.

Marion had a gift for making people feel welcomed and valued. Honest to her core and blessed with a sharp, insightful mind, she was a trusted confidant who offered guidance, reassurance, and truth when it was needed most. Her generosity, unconditional love, and steadfast loyalty left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her strong faith, instilled from a young age, remained an important part of her life.

Her family was her greatest pride and the center of everything she did. The impact she made will be felt and remembered for generations.

She will be missed beyond words and remembered always.