Louise Ellen Sorensen (née Rutherford) passed peacefully on December 11, 2024, at 88. She and her late husband, Peter, were lifetime residents of Closter, NJ and Marco Island, FL. They were married for 67 years and spent that time building a legacy of generosity and fun.

Louise was also predeceased by her son Peter. Her legacy continues in her three daughters, Kathy (Don) Haupt, Mary Doidge and Patty Christ. She is predeceased by her brother Andrew and survived by her siblings Bob, Rosemary and Eileen. She had a full family tree with in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was lucky enough to be called "Grandma" by Rebecca (Steven) Alwine, Elizabeth (Ricky) Golladay, Maggie (Alex Fisher) Christ and John Christ. She was a great-grandma to seven and this year welcomed her first great-grandson.

Only after Louise and Pete's children were in elementary school, with Louise's forethought, did she purposely seek employment in the local Board of Education to "have the same days off as her children." She continued to advance her career with the Board of Education. After Louise and Pete put their four children through college, Louise decided it was her turn. At the age of 55, Louise graduated from Dominican College in 1991 with a Bachelor's Degree and thus proudly was elevated to School Business Administrator/Board Secretary.

Louise always supported Pete's dedication to the Closter Fire Department, from helping with the Annual Fund Drive, including enlisting their children (back in the day) to help "stuff and address envelopes," to becoming President of the Ladies Auxiliary from 1976 – 1977.

The Sorensen's Closter home frequently hosted family gatherings, whether a birthday, graduation or "just because" barbeque. Events almost always included a homemade cake – with extra chocolate frosting available on the counter to snack on. Louise loved swimming in their backyard pool and the Gulf of Mexico. She loved hosting and having her family together.  Her home was warm and welcoming -- just like she was.

Louise will be remembered fondly for the memories carried on by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From their love of cheesecake and cream puffs to her Christmas village and robot vacuum adventures, the stories will continue to be passed from generation to generation. Louise lived a full and happy life, and her family was lucky they had so much time to spend with her.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 3pm to 7pm at Moritz Funeral Home, 348 Closter Dock Road, Closter, NJ 07624.

The Funeral Service will be held at Moritz Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Westwood Cemetery.

In place of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org) or your favorite charity in Louise's memory.