Obituary of Gisela F Clark

Gisela F. Clark (nee Bergman) passed away peacefully at the age of 89 early Saturday, November 5, 2016. She had been surrounded by her loving family over the past several weeks of her life sharing precious memories, laughter, tears, hugs and kisses. Born in Newark, NJ to Elsie (nee Schmidt) and Henry Paul Bergman, she spent most of her childhood in Packanack Lake (Wayne) before marrying “the love of her life”, the late Albert H. Clark in 1947. Together they started their family in Irvington before moving to the “country” - Hanover Township - in 1956. It is there that they resided for the remainder of their 52 year marriage. Pete, as she was affectionately nicknamed by Al very early in their relationship, was blessed with a large loving family. She is survived by her 4 children and spouses: Diane and Bob Schultheis of Morris Plains, Steve and Susan Clark of Port Orange, FL, Paul Clark of Morris Plains; and Nancy and Algia Motley of Randolph. She is also survived by her 9 beloved grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and her precious 4-legged boy Sparky, who has been her faithful companion for more than 10 years. While growing up in Packanack, Pete was an energetic “tomboy”, enjoying horseback riding, climbing trees, biking, swimming and berry picking. After marrying Al, the two of them settled into more mutually enjoyed activities, all of which centered around the great outdoors and their mutual love of nature and family. They enjoyed camping, hiking forest paths, walks at the arboretum and hours upon hours of gardening. Their home was always a gardener’s showcase featuring brick pathways and patios, terraced rock gardens, hand-hewn benches and as many interesting varieties of rhododendrons as they could get their hands on. Gardening was truly a passion for both Pete and Al. Pete was a terrific cook and baker and proudly continued her German heritage by often preparing many of the recipes that her mom had brought with her from Germany. Her sauerbraten, rouladen, Christmas stollen, fruitcake and cookies will be missed. Nobody can make them like Mom/Grandma could! She also loved needlework and crocheting, creating with love for all her family many afghans, needlepoint pillows, embroidered tablecloths and framed pieces that we will treasure forever because they were made by her for us with such love. In her later years Pete enjoyed spending hours doing jigsaw and crossword puzzles, reading, playing Rummikub with anyone who dared challenge her and, of course, spending as much time as possible with her family, whether it was the regular Sunday dinner get-together, a special holiday celebration or just some extra time to spend with a visiting grandchild or two. Gisela, Pete, Mom or Grandma - her life was filled with love and a special joy that could light up a room with her laughter. She was strong in spirit and body and taught her family what was important in life. She will be a bright light in heaven and leaves here a legacy of a family united in love. Though dearly missed she will always remain a constant presence in our hearts and lives. Family and friends are welcome to gather at Dangler Funeral Home, 600 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, on Wednesday, November 9th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. A Funeral Service for Gisela will be held at the Funeral Home on Thursday, November 10th at 11:00am. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Gisela’s memory to either: Market Street Mission, 9 Market Street, Morristown, NJ 07960, or Friends of the Frelinghuysen Arboretum, PO Box 1295, Morristown, NJ 07960-1295.