Marlene Berlingeri, of Sandy Hook, passed away on December 22, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in the Bronx to David and Mildred Rosenkrantz in 1954, and though Marlene spent a good portion of her life living in Connecticut, she would always say, “You can take the chick out of the Bronx, but you can’t take the Bronx out of the chick!” And that described her to a tee.

Survived by her husband of 39 years, Mark Berlingeri, son Adam Berlingeri and his wife Taryn Gatcomb, son Daniel Berlingeri and his wife Erica Harte, and brother Jeffery Rosenkrantz and his wife Lori Goldstein, Marlene was above all things, a woman who loved her family.

When not spending time caring for, advising, and talking with her immediate and extended family, Marlene loved to make the world a more beautiful place. From gardening to cooking, home decor, and volunteering with local Newtown school initiatives, Marlene wanted the world to be a beautiful, safe, and welcoming space for everyone. Never shy to lend her opinion, Marlene’s enthusiasm, humor, and “telling it like it is” attitude kept her family going and everyone she met laughing and leaning in. Marlene never missed an opportunity to crack a joke or laugh at one at her expense. She was, through and through, a good sport. Marlene left behind a legacy of loving care and family unity.

If she could talk to you now, she’d tell you to hold your loved ones close and squish them good, every day you can!