Highland Lakes, NJ: Theresa M. Orso (nee Curran), 84 years old died after a short illness in Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York City on Monday, March 5, 2018. Born to Patrick J, Curran and Mary Browne Curran in New York City, Theresa moved to Fort Lee where she met and married John Orso. They lived in Fort Lee with their five children and summered in Highland Lakes starting in 1960 before retiring there 15 years ago.
Theresa graduated from Bergen Community College with an associate degree in Nursing; Dominican College with a baccalaureate degree in Psychology and Columbia University where she received a Master’s degree both in Education and Counseling Psychology.
After working as a nurse in the ICU/CCU at Secaucus Hospital, Theresa finished her nursing career working in the Psychiatric Unit at Holy Name Hospital.
Theresa was an active Webelo’s Den Mother and a volunteer for youth ministry with St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Palisades Park. As a member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, she was involved in establishing its Legion of Mary Apostolic Association, first as an active member where she held the position of president and then later as an axillary member.Theresa shared her strong Catholic Faith with all those she came in contact with.
Her generosity towards others was legendary and she had a soft spot for homeless animals, having adopted several pets . She was also a PRO-LIFE Advocate.
Theresa is preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Samuel Joseph Hoon Raphael Sullivan, her sister, Mary and brothers, Patrick and Kevin.
Theresa is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, John, her children Ronald and his wife, Kathy Orso, Jeanmarie Orso Grey and her husband, Roger, Mary Rose Castro and her husband Alfredo; Kim Orso Tong ; Colleen Orso and her husband James Sullivan and her cherished grandchildren.
The family will receive their friends at Ferguson Funeral Home, 27 Third Street, Sussex, NJ on Friday March 9, 2018 from 2-4 and 7-9. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Fatima RC Church, Highland Lakes on Saturday, March 10th at 9:00 am. Interment to follow at Madonna Cemetery, Fort Lee.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Priests for Life, St. Joseph’s Indian School, Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge or Born Free Foundation would be appreciated.