Obituary of Josette Gernhardt

Gernhardt, Josette B., age 68, of Mahwah, NJ passed into eternal life May 30, 2015. Beloved wife of Ulrich "Uli", mother of Mike and Carolyn, grandmother of Isabelle and Connor. Born in Paris, France September 2, 1946. She grew up in Switzerland, lived with her husband for 12 years in Germany. Setting for herself the highest standards she was appointed President of an affiliate company of a multinational manufacturing company in Germany. In 1979 she relocated with her husband and son to Mahwah, N.J. Being multilingual she taught German and French at the Ramsey Adult School. She attended Ramapo College studying as a major Computer Science. She was deeply involved in Special Education in children and adults with special needs. Josette became a Realtor in 1997 and joined RE/MAX in 1999. She was a member of the Committee for Continuing Education (Real Source) and Co-Chair of the International Committee of Real Source Board of Realtors. Josette had a deep love for animals and supported the shelters in surrounding communities. Josette touched the lives of many people personally and professionally. She was strong and demanding but at the same time loving, caring and passionate. She helped and encouraged, supported and promoted the people she loved. Her motto was always "To those I love and who love me." Total dedication and unlimited love. "She was one tough cookie." The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 3rd from 2-4 and 7-9pm at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, N.J. 07481. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, June 4th at 10am at Church of the Presentation, 271 W. Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, N.J. 07458. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Josette's memory to the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, 2 Shelter Lane, Oakland, N.J. 07436, www.rbari.org.