Dolores (Walker) Kellner

Dolores (Dee) J. Kellner (nee Walker), 87, of Toms River, New Jersey, passed away on 1/1/22, entering in the arms of God after having lived a long and fulfilling life.

Dee was born April 30, 1934 in Leonia, NJ, the daughter of David C. Walker and Dorothy Mader.

Dee graduated from Leonia High School. She married Frederick A. Daneu on January 20, 1952 in Westwood NJ and they later divorced.  Together they had six children.

Dee married Charles Kellner on October 18, 1974 in Hillsdale NJ, with Mayor Englander officiating.  Dee and Charlie were married for almost 30 years when Charlie passed on August 6, 2004.  This marriage expanded their family to include 9 children between them and future grandchildren and great grandchildren which delighted them both.

Dee worked in many different jobs throughout her life.  She spent a number of years as a waitress which is how she met Charlie.  Dee and Charlie partnered in running local restaurant food services together.  After she left the restaurant industry, Dee went into financial services as a teller with Valley National Bank and Wells Fargo until she retired.

In addition to her work life, Dee was a track coach, den mother and girl scout leader when her children were young.  She was a talented seamstress and adept with crochet and knitting.  She made sure her daughters could make their own clothes and she created unique prom gowns as well as wedding outfits (although none of her daughters was brave enough to risk last minute tailoring happening on a wedding gown as they walked down the aisle).

Dee especially loved cooking for family gatherings, researching and debating scriptures, constantly learning new things (especially with her computer), reading, traveling and helping others.  Dee also loved all of her furry grandchildren throughout the years and never forgot to celebrate them and their special occasions.   

Dee was an active member of Cedar Glen Homes having worked in several committees over the years she lived there.  She was a member of St Luke’s parish in Toms River and faithfully attended services even when they went remote.  She also ensured that other members of her Cedar Glen community were able to attend with her.

Remaining to cherish Dee’s memory are her and Charlie’s children and their spouses -  Frederick E and Jean Daneu, Elizabeth Reese, Mary and Joe Rattino, Kevin and Ellen Daneu, Erin and John Magee, Renee and Jeff Pierce, Chuck and Kim Kellner, Dorene and Mark Pinnelli, and Peter and Judy Kellner.  Dee is survived by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and the four legged grandchildren who always delighted her.

Dee’s wishes were to be cremated and be interred with Charlie at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery.  There will be a celebration of life at a future date.

Condolences and memories may be left at www.lombardifuneralhome.com

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