Margaret A. Hollod

Age 83
Somerville

Margaret A. Hollod, 83, of Somerville passed away on May 24, 2014, at home in the loving embrace of her family. She died during her favorite time of the year, spring, and during the Memorial Day weekend, one of the most meaningful holidays to her.

Marge was born in Freeland, PA on February 26, 1931 to Joseph and Anna (Soltis) Preat. She graduated from Freeland High School in 1949. She married Edward Hollod on July 6, 1957 in Freeland and they moved to Somerville shortly afterward.

Marge worked at a number of local businesses throughout her varied career, cultivating friendships at each that lasted throughout her life. She worked at RCA in Bridgewater, Jelco Laboratories in Raritan, Baker & Taylor in Somerville, the Somerset Valley YMCA in Somerville, and, until her 80th birthday, Stellar Academy in Bridgewater in the infant and preschool rooms. Beyond that, she also assisted numerous family and friends during their time of illness or need.

Marge’s family was the pride of her life and no sacrifice was too much to ensure the success and happiness of her children and grandchildren. She made sure her children got the best education possible, a task made more challenging as she was widowed at the age of 51. She never missed a school activity, sporting event, or social event for her children or grandchildren. She found countless ways to help them, not ceasing in this effort until Alzheimer’s Disease eventually required her family, friends and caregiver Linda to lovingly assist her in her time of need.

During her illness Marge continued to make new friends at the Adult Day Center of Somerset County which she attended until a few weeks ago. The care she received there enhanced her quality of life immeasurably.

Christmas was the most important and a beautiful holiday to Marge. Her decorations and baking, especially holiday cookies, along with poppy seed and nut breads, were legendary in quality and quantity.

Marge travelled extensively in the US and abroad, and through the years visited Hawaii, the Grand Canyon, California, England, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Aruba, among other places. But her favorite journeys were always those that involved visiting family and friends, especially if they included a trip back to her home town of Freeland.

Veterans’ causes were especially important to Marge and she enthusiastically raised money for them through her involvement with the Somerville Post 12 American Legion Auxiliary where she held numerous offices through the years. Her fundraising efforts included organizing trips, craft shows, and selling poppies for Memorial Day.

Marge was also the recipient of the 2012 Eleanor Roosevelt Award from the Somerset County Federation of Democratic Women for her activities on behalf of Democratic Candidates in Somerville and countywide. She had served as a County Democratic Committeewoman for many years.

Marge is survived by her son, Mayor David Hollod and his wife Cynthia; daughter, Donna Gibbons and her husband Paul; two grandchildren, Bryce and Connor Gibbons; all from Somerville. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and her best friend of nearly 60 years, Dorothy Opilla.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Edward, her brothers, Anthony, and Andrew (Ossie), and sisters Mary Walen and Ann Maso.

Marge’s boundless energy and love, unfailing loyalty to her family and friends, and courageousness will forever serve as an inspiration to all who knew her.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Ave. Somerville, NJ. Visitation will take place at the Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 27, 2-4 PM and 6-9 PM. A Funeral Divine Liturgy will be held on Wednesday, May 28 at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 1900 Brooks Blvd, Hillsborough. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Hillsborough.

The Hollod-Gibbons family requests that, in lieu of flowers, consideration be given to a memorial contribution to the Adult Day Center of Somerset County, 872 East Main St; Bridgewater, NJ 08807.