In Memoriam: Rumson Native & Longtime Fair Havenite, Ruth Bertell, 93

Longtime Fair Havenite and Rumson native, Frieda “Ruth” Bertell, passed away at Navesink Harbor in Red Bank on May 22. She was 93.


Born on Sept. 2, 1930 to the late Albert and Selma Dudley, of Rumson.  Ruth had previously lived in Rumson before moving to Fair Haven after marrying Christian Bertell in 1958. 

“Ruth was a graduate of Red Bank Catholic High School. She was a member of the Car Club of America in NY, where she loved racing cars at Watkins Glen. Ruth had a passion for antique cars and could be found in many parades riding in her and Christian’s Model T or proudly showing off their fleet at car shows. Ruth loved animals, especially her Dalmatians and the stray cat named Peanut she looked after. Ruth worked as a seamstress for the Atlantic Highlands Manufacturing Co. in Atlantic Highlands and also loved needlepointing and sewing.” 

Loved ones of Ruth Bertell in her obituary

She was predeceased by her husband Christian and her brother Herbert Dudley.

Ruth is survived by a cousin Vince Domidion, her sister-in-law Karen Dudley and nephews Brian, Herb and Mark.

A memorial service, in Ruth’s honor, will be held on Wednesday, May 31, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at John E. Day Funeral Home, 85 Riverside Ave., Red Bank, NJ 07701. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Ruth’s name to the SPCA, 260 Wall Street, PO Box 93, Eatontown, NJ 07724.