Rita Mandel

Rita Mandel (née Moskowitz) passed away on May 2, 2024, in Boynton Beach, Florida, at the age of 93.

Born on March 3, 1931, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Jack and Sylvia Moskowitz, Rita grew up alongside her beloved brothers, Harold Moskowitz (Martha) and Jerry Moskowitz (Lois). Rita was always proud to say she was "born and raised in Atlantic City," and that she graduated from Atlantic City High School where she was a drum majorette.

In September 1951, Rita married Isidore "Bob" Mandel. They began their married life in Elizabeth, New Jersey, before settling in Scotch Plains, where they built a loving home and raised their family. Rita was the devoted mother of Judy Mandel Lasher (Bill), Mindy Mandel-Werner (Craig), and her late son, Todd Jason Mandel.

Together, Rita and Bob co-owned Bob's Scotchwood Pharmacy in Fanwood and were founding members of Temple Israel (now Congregation Beth Israel) in Scotch Plains. Rita was dedicated to her synagogue community, serving as Sisterhood President and lending her creativity to decorating the sukkah each year, a task she embraced with pride and joy.

After Bob's passing in 1982, Rita pursued a career as a travel consultant, combining her love of adventure with her gift for connecting with others. Through her work, she traveled extensively and delighted in sharing her passion for exploring the world with friends and family.

Rita was then introduced to Larry Plotkin, who became her loving partner for over 25 years. Together they moved from Scotch Plains to Boynton Beach, Florida, where they enjoyed an active and fulfilling life.

Rita was endlessly proud of her grandchildren: Robert Lasher (Alyssa), Russell Werner, Allison Lasher, and Gabriel Werner. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Brody Lasher and Avery Lasher, who brought her tremendous happiness.

Rita was a natural athlete and vibrant spirit throughout her life. She was an avid tennis player, a gifted dancer, and a gardener with a talent for flower arranging and growing orchids. You could always find her out in the garden (or a family member's garden), or in the kitchen, swing dancing with the refrigerator if a dance partner was not readily available.

She was predeceased by her son, Todd Jason Mandel; her husband, Isidore "Bob" Mandel; her longtime partner, Larry Plotkin; and her son-in-law, Bill Lasher.

Rita will be remembered for her warmth, energy, and adventurous spirit. She was a devoted wife, partner, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and loyal friend who brought joy to all. To know her was to love her.

May her memory be for a blessing.