Maria D. Hoernlein

Maria Dolores (Santucci) Hoernlein (March 1, 2025)

Maria, 84, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Maria was a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend whose faith, love, and joy enriched the lives of everyone who knew her. 

Born in 1940 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Hoboken, NJ, Maria grew up in a loving family with parents Alfred Santucci and Frances Bitondo, and brothers Alfred (Al) and Gerard (Jerry). She spent her childhood in Union City, West New York, Cliffside Park, and Fort Lee, her family’s home always a hub of warmth and generosity. Maria attended Epiphany grammar school and the Academy of the Holy Angels, where her love for poetry and her faith deepened. She later pursued education at Fordham University and worked at Equitable Life Insurance Company in New York City.

Maria’s life forever brightened when she met the love of her life, Roger Hoernlein on a CYO “mystery” bus ride. Their connection blossomed, and they married on September 2, 1961, after a two year courtship. They first lived in Maria’s parents’ two-family home in Fort Lee before moving to Bergenfield, NJ. There they raised their five children in a home filled with faith, love, and joy. They hosted countless gatherings for family and friends, their modest home overflowing with love and laughter. Maria and Roger enjoyed travels to Europe, cruises, and square dancing as active members of the clubs Belles & Beaus, Hix & Chicks, and Western Wheelers.

A woman of many talents, Maria was skilled at singing, drawing, acting, and writing poetry. She played piano as a child and carried her creative spirit throughout her life. She also found fulfillment in community involvement, serving as a Girl Scout leader, participating in the Holy Rosary Society and performing in plays. After many years as an at-home mother, Maria worked at Scholastic in Englewood Cliffs and in the Admissions Office at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck.

As active members of Saint John the Evangelist Church in Bergenfield, Maria and Roger served as Eucharistic Ministers, and leaders for Pre-Cana and Marriage Encounter. Maria’s faith remained central throughout her life: she prayed daily and drew inspiration from the Bible. Maria loved Jesus and committed her life to Him, as her Lord and Savior.

Her favorite Bible verse was from Micah 6:8

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”

Maria is predeceased by her parents, Frances and Alfred Santucci, brother, Alfred Gino Santucci, and Sister-in-law Valeri Santucci. 

Maria is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Roger Hoernlein; her brother, Gerard Santucci (Ann Wry): children, Theresa Sbrilli (Paul), Diana Bet (Victor), Carol Hoernlein (Eric Nelsen), Sharon Sterling, and Michael Hoernlein (Crystal). Maria is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Maria’s legacy of faith, love, and kindness will forever inspire her family and all who were fortunate to know her.

A Memorial Mass will be held on April 12, at 10:00AM, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Bergenfield, followed by a Celebration of Life service at Riewerts Memorial Home in Bergenfield 11:00AM – 2:00PM.