Obituaries

Helena ‘Louise Virgina’ Haupt (Pesano)
Age 96 – Shrewsbury

Helena has always reminded us that old age isn’t for the ‘faint of heart’ and it was her extraordinary strength, wisdom and determination that sustained her for these past 96 years.  On November 5, 2016, she was reunited with her husbands, children and friends that have gone before her.   May they continue their journey together and watch over those of us who are left behind.   

Through the many highs and lows of her life, Helena always remained confident that there was a plan for her and that God was her guiding star.  It was that deep sense of knowing and spirit that sustained her through many difficulties.  It was her love for the ocean that provided her with calm and anticipation of the end of season Jersey tomatoes that got her through some difficult moments.

Helena had a creative talent that was unmatched whether she was guiding a needle through cloth or wielding a hammer and wrench to complete a home improvement project.  She was appreciative of the simple things life had to offer such as caring for her family and friends, creating a beautiful and loving home and looking forward to the return of the humming bird that tapped at the window for her attention each spring.   

She was a loyal friend who always extended a helping hand or sympathetic ear and asked for very little in return.  As she faced the many challenges in her life, she set a remarkable example of courage and strength that was admired and appreciated by all of those around her.

Helena is predeceased by her first husband Thomas M. Pesano, former Chief of Police of the Long Branch Police Department, her second husband William Paul Haupt and her son Thomas.  
She is survived by her sister Madeline Grant of Montebello, VA, her daughter Louise Pesano of Elberon, her son Michael Pesano and his wife Nancy of Versailles, KY, her step-children, Kate Cheshire Shoreline of WA, Eric Haupt and Barbara Haupt of Bryn Mawr, PA.  Helena is also survived by many wonderful and loving grand, great-grand and great-great-grandchildren in addition to several nieces and nephews and many generous and loving friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday November 9th from 7pm to 9pm at the Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday November 10th  at 9 am at St. Mary’s Church, 1 Phalanx Rd, Colts Neck. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Foodbank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, 3300 Route 66, Neptune, NJ 07753.