2023 Polar Bear Plunge is a winter delight

On Saturday, Feb. 25, the Union County Policemen’s Benevolent Association No. 73 sponsored the “Secret Squirrel 73” team to participate in the annual Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights. This year was the 30th year for the event and featured more than 7,500 plungers and 567 teams. A total of $2.6 million was raised this year to benefit the Special Olympics of NJ, far exceeding the fundraising goal.

The “Secret Squirrel 73” team featured 10 “plungers” that braved the freezing temperatures and bone chilling waters to raise money for a good cause. Union County Police PBA No. 73 current members, retirees and sponsors participated in the plunge and raised more than $1,200 for the Special Olympics. A special thanks was given to S Brothers Construction for its generous donation to help make the event a continued success.

PBA No. 73 President Kenneth Dalrymple said, “It was a frigid day to be jumping into the icy water, but it was worth it. We raised money for a worthy cause that will bring smiles and laughter to a lot of kids. I can’t think of a better way to spend a freezing February day!”

Yael Katzwer, an editor at Worrall Community Newspapers, was honored with a second place award from the New Jersey Press Association in the Arts and Entertainment category for her story “Hypnotism and Improv to Meet on UCPAC stage,” which appeared in the Union County LocalSource.

• BROWN – Annette G., of Atlanta, Ga., formerly of Cranford; Feb. 15. Was 81.

• BYELICK – Susan, of Daytona Beach, Fla., formerly of Cranford; March 13. Worked for Schering-Plough. Wife, mother, sister, aunt, 69.

• DEPAUL – Joseph A. Jr., of Cranford, formerly of Scotch Plains; Feb. 15. Professional musician, music teacher, pilot. Brother, uncle, 72.

• MADORMA – Ann, of Cranford; Feb. 16. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 90.

• MCLEOD – Ramon Gerald “Ray,” of Cranford; Feb. 16. Minor League baseball player, stock broker. Widower, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, 94.

• SOBELSON – Ronald Irving Joseph, of Cranford; March 5. Pharmacist, business owner. Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, 90.

• STROZZI – Mary Louise, of Edison, formerly of Woodbridge and Cranford; March 2. Teacher, CCD teacher, tutor. Wife, mother, 81.

• WELLEN – Jacquelin, of Brunswick, Maine, formerly of Westfield and Cranford; Feb. 23. Social worker. Widow, mother, grandmother, 90.

In Memoriam is a monthly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.