Catherine M (Stefanile) Shaljian

Catherine M. Shaljian

Philanthropist, Beloved Wife, Mother and Grandmother

Mrs. Catherine (nee Stefanile) Shaljian, 80, of Cedar Grove, NJ passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024 at the age of 80.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral mass held on Friday, March 22 at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 339 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove at 10:00 a.m.  The interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, North Arlington.

Catherine was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey where she attended The Academy of St. Aloysius. She lived most her life in Montclair and Cedar Grove, which led to her becoming a parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena Church. 

Catherine was the embodiment of empathy. She cared deeply about everyone, from her family and friends to strangers in need. She showed her compassion for others through prayer, service, and generosity, and dedicated herself to volunteerism for over twenty years.

Catherine served as the Head Librarian of St. Catherine of Siena School. She was an active PTA volunteer, running special events, lunch programs, and fundraisers. She was always present on the school grounds and was loved by both the teachers and students. 

Among her many philanthropic endeavors, Catherine was instrumental in obtaining a grant from the Martini Foundation which funded the installation of a computer lab at St. Catherine's School. She was also one of the major contributors to the school's campaign for new windows. Additionally, Catherine served as a board member of the St. Vincent's Nursing Home Auxiliary, and her work improved the lives of nursing home residents.  

Catherine was the essence of grace and elegance. She had impeccable taste, remarkable style, and a natural talent for interior design. She was an avid reader and an incredible cook whose delicious recipes were beloved family traditions. She enjoyed traveling the world on exciting cruises with her family and friends. Her smile was full of warmth and her laugh was contagious. 

A woman of great faith, Catherine was particularly devoted to the Blessed Virgin, whose gentleness and strength inspired her and gave her comfort. Catherine set an example for her family to prioritize faith and service.

Above all else, Catherine's love for her family is her greatest legacy. They will miss her terribly and always remember her as innately nurturing and a truly devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was her greatest source of pride and her protection of them was always her main priority.  

Catherine is survived by Ronald Shaljian, her devoted husband of 50 years; her loving daughter Lara; her son-in-law Oscar; and her grandchildren, Cindy and Jack, who she adored. She will always be remembered for her compassionate nature, gentle spirit, and the boundless love she had for her family. 

Catherine is predeceased by her parents Angelo and Agnes (nee Altomonte) Stefanile, her sister Angela, and her son Anthony.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Catherine's memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorials Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, www.stjude.org, or to the St. Catherine of Siena Heritage Fund.

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