Obituary of Eleanor M Bretzger

Eleanor Bretzger, age 76, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2019. Born in Kearny, NJ, to parents George and Eleanor (nee Pardy) Ballantyne, she went on to work as a talented Beautician after graduating high school. After marrying the love of her life, Robert, the couple and their three children settled in Mendham in 1975 where they became parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Mendham. Ellie was a member of the Mendham Borough Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and was active in the community. She operated Consolidated Fire Protection Systems with her husband while raising three children and volunteering in their activities. She loved hosting parties, the beach and walking the Jersey Shore boardwalks. She was most happy when she was with her family and was devoted to her grandchildren. Eleanor is predeceased by her loving husband of 54 years, Robert K. Bretzger, Sr., and is survived by son Robert K. Bretzger Jr. of Califon, daughters Christine (Gregg) Kattermann of Long Valley and Susanne (James) Iantosca of Randolph, sister Rosemary Jacobs of Rahway, and grandchildren Lindsey, Brian, Jake, Paige, Nicholas, and Kelly as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for her during her last days. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 29th from 1-5pm at the Bailey Funeral Home, 8 Hilltop Rd., Mendham. A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, December 30th, at 11am in the funeral home. Interment will follow at Hilltop Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to 11th Hour Rescue, Mendham Borough Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.