Mary Gombos

Mary Gombos

Carteret - Mary Markowitz Gombos passed away at home on January 25, 2021 at the age of 105. Born in Carteret, she was the daughter of Joseph and Catherine Markowitz. She was predeceased by brothers, Capt. John J. Markowitz, Michael Markowitz and sister, Jean Kosel. Surviving are daughters, Linda Benson, Fran Tesche (Al) and Debra Gombos; grandchildren, Chris Benson, Lyn Rutkoski and Lee Tesche; and great-granddaughter, Alexandra Benson.

Mary had a strong work ethic beginning at an early age at a local bakery. Later in life she worked for Perth Amboy National Bank and S. Klein's department store. She had a taste for fashion, with an eye for details. She had a standing hair appointment for 50 years.

Mary was married for 62 years to the late Fred Gombos, retired Carteret Fire Chief. She met her Hungarian Prince, while attending dances at St. Demetrius Ukrainian Church in the 1930's; they spent many nights "tearing up" the dance floor, earning the nicknames "Fred and Ginger". Fred waited 23 years for his "Ginger", but now they're dancing in that "big ballroom in the sky". In addition to dancing, their interests included trips to Europe, Hawaii, Bermuda and other locations, including beach time at the Jersey Shore.

Mary's main interests always revolved around her family, friends and community. She was involved in the Catholic Daughters and Carteret Daytime Senior Citizen Group. She was also known for her generosity and delicious meals of which chicken paprikash and cabbage rolls were her signature dishes. Mary's positive spirit and unselfish commitment to family and friends will be her lasting legacy. She will be dearly missed.

Private Services were held under the care of Synowiecki Funeral Home, 56 Carteret Ave., in Carteret. A memorial service will be held at a later date.