Arlene J. Surdyka

Arlene J. Surdyka, 82, of Wood-Ridge, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family in the home she cherished for over 39 years. Born on August 3, 1943, in Hackensack to the late Josephine and Michael Romanchick, Arlene was raised in Garfield and graduated from Garfield High School, Class of 1961. Arlene was the beloved and beautiful wife of Frederick for nearly 42 years, and his greatest blessing and constant companion; a devoted and loving mother to Lisa Perno-Gelewski and her husband Mike; and a cherished and proud grandmother to twins Emily Maya and Michael Paul, who brought her endless joy. She was also a loving sister-in-law to Carol Surdyka, a dear aunt to Joe and Shelly, Bob and Terri, and Kevin, and a proud great-aunt to Joseph. She was predeceased by her parents and her dear sister, Maryann "Ro" Romanchick, and brother-in-law Alan Surdyka. Arlene lived her life with quiet dignity, thoughtfulness, and grace. Never one to seek recognition, she expressed her love through her actions-always putting others first and showing up for anyone in need. She had a natural way of making people feel special, and her kindness and generosity left a lasting imprint on all who knew her. If someone needed help, comfort, or simply a listening ear, Arlene was always there. She will always be remembered as someone truly special. She worked for many years as an Office Manager, including with Temco Home Healthcare Products and Acme International, before taking early retirement to lovingly care for her ailing parents-an act that reflected her selflessness and deep devotion to family. Her greatest joy was time spent with family and friends, especially when gathered around her table. A legendary cook, she was known for preparing incredible spreads that could feed an army-whether for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simple summer barbecues on her deck overlooking the New York skyline. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness. She enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life rich-spending lazy afternoons floating in her pool, barbecuing, dining out, and traveling. She especially loved trips to St. Maarten and Aruba with family and friends, as well as memorable visits to Atlantic City with her sister-in-law Carol, always hoping to hit her favorite Lucky 7 slot machines and secure that "pot of gold." She and her husband also shared many special celebrations at the Upper Montclair Country Club, where they were members. Arlene was a parishioner of St. Joseph's R.C. Church in East Rutherford and had also been attending services at Our Lady of Mount Carmel R.C. Church in Ridgewood alongside her daughter. In quieter moments, she found joy in oil painting in her younger years, and more recently could often be found watching sports or her favorite Hallmark movies. A devoted, long-time fan of the New York Yankees, she especially loved cheering on Derek Jeter and Aaron Judge from the comfort of home. Arlene's life was defined by love-love for her family, her cherished friends, and the many people whose lives she touched so deeply. She expressed that love in ways both big and small, often saying, "You are my sunshine" and "I love you to the moon and back." Above all, her legacy is one of love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Monsignor Ron Rozniak will celebrate the Funeral Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations in Arlene's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org ) or The American Cancer Society of New Jersey (PO Box P, Manasquan, NJ 08736) would be kindly appreciated by her family.

Arlene J. Surdyka

August 3, 1943 - April 9, 2026