Bertha Colmenero

With a twinkle in her eye and a century of tales in her heart, Bertha Colmenero (surrounded by her immediate family), completed her earthly sojourn on February 13, 2024, after a glorious 100-year parade around the sun. Born in the vibrant land of Cuba, Bertha danced through life with a love that was contagious, caring that knew no bounds, generosity as vast as the ocean, and a friendship that was as warm as her native shores. Her dedicating heart to help others was beyond inspiring-making her a beacon of friendship and pride for those fortunate to cross her path.
She is fondly celebrated by her brother, Roberto Madan; daughter-in-law, Kimberly Fleites; along with her loving, cherished and forever grateful grandchildren, Tabatha Fleites Cervantes, Toni Fleites Lobel, Schawn Fleites, Kimmie Fleites Reynolds; and her adoring great-grandchildren, Anthony Spiegel, Cara Lobel, Emma Lobel, and Tatiana Cervantes.
United once more with her beloved father, Bienvenido Madan; mother, Virginia Madan; and son, Isidro "Tony" Fleites, Bertha's spirit is now carried on through the generations she shaped with tenderness and strength.
Bertha's selfless devotion was evident through her years as a compassionate social worker and as an ESL teacher at Burnett Street School in Newark, diligently serving for over two decades. With the educational foundation laid at Montclair State University, she built a career of impact and resonance.
As a faithful parishioner of the Church of Saint Joseph of the Palisades, Bertha's life was further enriched by her spiritual community, where she both served and found solace.
Wherever Bertha went, she carried her joy for life. Everyone loved her smile and bubbly personality. Whether she was globe-trotting, on shopping adventures, pampering at the salon, immersed in her favorite books, or sharing quiet moments with her cherished dog, Moteka, and her cat, Lily, Bertha embraced each day with passion and a zest for new experiences.
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