Marlene Mae Kiefer

Marlene Mae Kiefer passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on May 28, 2025, in Manahawkin, NJ. Born on January 21, 1944, in Irvington, NJ, to her loving parents, Charles Louis Melchior and Florence (Baird) Melchior, who preceded her in death. Marlene lived a life marked by generosity, devotion to her family, and an unwavering commitment to her community.
Marlene, a graduate of Union High School, worked as a supervisor at Hazel Bishop, and then later as a pre-K classroom paraprofessional and an office manager. However, it was her vocation as a caregiver to her beloved grandsons, Tyler and Ryan Pushko, that she held dearest after her retirement. This role allowed her to express her boundless love and to be an integral part of their lives.
Marlene's spirit of service extended beyond her professional and family life. She was a devoted member of Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church and after retiring to Ocean County, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she actively volunteered, serving over the years as a Sunday School teacher, Deacon, and an Elder in the church. Her love for children was evident in her many years of volunteering at church, the local elementary school, and Calvary Academy, where she touched the lives of countless young individuals with her kindness.
Marlene enjoyed reading, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends. She especially loved cheering on her grandsons at their school and sporting events and going on vacation to Disney World with her family.
Marlene's legacy is carried on by her loving husband of 60 years, Donald Kiefer; her daughter, Kellie Kiefer Pushko; her son-in-law, Michael Pushko; and her grandsons, Tyler and Ryan, who were her pride and joy. Her presence in their lives was a gift they will forever cherish.
Those who knew Marlene would describe her as a loving, selfless, and generous soul. She never went anywhere that she did not make a friend and she always had a smile and kind word to share with others. Her unwavering support and care for those around her made her a cherished figure in her community and an irreplaceable part of her family. Marlene's memory will be held in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return.
Though we mourn her passing, we rejoice in the promise of her eternal peace, reunited with her parents in the presence of God. Her faith was her foundation, and it is now our comfort.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marlene's favorite charity, the WITH Grace Foundation, in her honor using the following link: https://link.edgepilot.com/s/6de151f9/Ckua9nyWfU6QxdFrbDxvhQ?u=https://givebutter.com/Marlene