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Eileen A. Tuske, a loving, caring, and wonderful storyteller who brought joy to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, in Florham Park, New Jersey, at the age of 79.
Born on September 15, 1946, in Passaic, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Mary Werger, née Pawloski. Eileen was raised in Garfield, New Jersey, where she graduated from Garfield High School and began building the strong foundation of family devotion and steady work that would define her life. She later resided in Clifton from 1973 until 2017, when she moved to Fairfield.
Eileen was the beloved wife of Allen R. Tuske for 58 years. Together they shared a life centered on family, loyalty, and everyday acts of care that reflected the depth of her love. She was the devoted mother of Kristine La Fragola and Michele Picarelli. She was also a cherished grandmother to Andrew and Ava Picarelli.
Before her retirement, Eileen was employed as a bank teller with Chase Bank in Montclair. Prior to that, she worked for many years at St. Philip the Apostle School in Clifton, serving in the cafeteria as head cook. In that role, she cared for generations of children with the same patience and kindness she brought to every part of her life. Her work ethic, sense of responsibility, and friendly spirit left a lasting impression on those who had the pleasure of working alongside her.
Outside of work, Eileen found great joy in gardening. She took pride in tending to her plants and creating beauty in the spaces around her. She also had a deep love for animals and cared for them with tremendous compassion and devotion, always making sure they were safe, loved, and well cared for. Most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and doting on them with the affection and delight that came so naturally to her. Known lovingly as “Mary Poppins” to her grandchildren, Eileen made every moment with them feel special. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment shared with them.
Eileen was predeceased by her parents, Martin and Mary Werger; her stepmother, Rose Werger; and her sister, Carol Werger.
Eileen is survived by her loving husband, Allen R. Tuske; her daughters, Kristine La Fragola (Frank) and Michele Picarelli; her beloved grandchildren, Andrew and Ava Picarelli; their father, Andy; as well as many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
Although her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, Eileen’s kindness, warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family will forever be remembered. The love she shared so freely and the countless memories she created will continue to bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
Memorial Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton. A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 11:30 am at St. Philip the Apostle R.C. Church, 797 Valley Road, Clifton. Please meet at church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Clifton Friends of the Shelter, P.O. Box 4923, Clifton, NJ 07015-4923 or at www.cliftonanimalshelter.com . Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Eileen A. (Werger) Tuske, please visit our floral store.
Clifton Friends of the Shelter, Inc.
P.O. Box 4923, Clifton NJ 07015-4923
Web: http://www.cliftonanimalshelter.com