Ethel Mae Hansen Tarantino, age 99 years, of Flemington, NJ, died peacefully on Monday, August 21, 2023, at Hunterdon Care Center, Raritan Township, NJ.

Ethel was born on February 4, 1924, in the serene town of Lisbon, WI, to her proud parents, the late Hans Walter Hansen and Mabel Jane Witz Hansen, who instilled in her the values of compassion, resilience, and a zest for life.

Her life journey was one marked by tireless dedication and selflessness. As a registered nurse at Hunterdon Medical Center, Flemington, NJ, she devoted herself to the care of others, working tirelessly in all areas of the hospital, from the emergency room to the cardiac unit. She was also one of the energetic smiles and caring ears to many at Hunterdon Pediatrics over the years. Ethel’s warm presence, gentle touch, and unwavering commitment brought comfort and healing to countless lives of all generations.

Ethel’s love and compassion extended beyond the walls of the hospital, as she worked alongside her husband and family at Tarantino’s Shoe Repair in Flemington, NJ, for many years. The Tarantino family has always been known for their hard work and dedication to the community, and Ethel was honored of her role as the matriarch.

A proud graduate of Muhlenberg College, Ethel moved to Flemington in 1948 after growing up in Wisconsin and first living in Somerville, NJ. It was during this time that fate would intervene, as she met her future husband, Charles Anthony Tarantino, at the renowned Tick Tock Diner in Raritan, NJ. Despite the challenges of distance as he would join the United States Army soon after their meeting, their love prevailed, and they married upon his return. Together, they were blessed with the joy of raising six incredible children, Linda, Cheryl, Virginia, Daniel, Pattie, and Charles Anthony, Jr.

Ethel’s legacy extended far beyond her immediate family as she embraced her role as a cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her unyielding love and guidance have touched the lives of eleven grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, and seven great great grandchildren, along with their spouses, partners, and friends, and will forever shape the lives of those who knew her.

While caring for others was Ethel’s calling, she also found time for her own passions and adventures. She delighted in traveling and experienced the wonders of breathtaking destinations such as Greece, Hawaii, and even ventured on a fearless journey to Alaska, driving the long way there. As a member of the “Loners on Wheels” camping club, she found solace in the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers.

As we mourn Ethel’s passing we cherish the countless memories we shared on life’s journey. Her infectious laughter, radiant smile, and unwavering support will forever remain etched in our hearts. She faced life’s challenges with grace and determination, and her enduring spirit will serve as an inspiration to all.

In addition to her parents and cherished husband, Charles Anthony Tarantino, Sr., who died in 1975, Ethel was preceded in death by two of her daughters, Linda Sneed and Pattie Tarantino; her son-in-law, Patrick Parker; and two brothers, Forest and Donald Hansen.

Surviving are her children and their spouses, Cheryl and Allan Carrigan, Virginia Parker, Daniel and Debra Tarantino, and Charles Jr. and Trish Tarantino; her son-in-law, Mac Sneed; her eleven grandchildren, Melissa, Chris, Jennifer, Ryan, Seth, Brittany, Nathan, Ashley, Cynthia, Justin, and Nicole; her fifteen great grandchildren, Nicholas, Matthew, Oliver, Katie, Allison, Douglas, Penelope, Lorelai, Bryce, Shane, Jaden, Calistra, Colt, Adrianna, and Carsten; her seven great great grandchildren, Walter, Emily, Hannah, Anabelle, Riley, Julian and Mila; several nieces, nephews, and extended family members; her cockatiel, “Charlie”; and many dear friends.

Ethel Mae Hansen Tarantino, a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, may your gentle soul find eternal peace as you journey beyond the horizon. Your light will forever illuminate our lives.

The family invites you to honor Ethel’s remarkable life and bid her farewell during the graveside Life Celebration service, which will take place on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Foothill Road, Bridgewater, NJ, under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38 State Highway 31, Flemington, NJ. Everyone is kindly asked to meet at the cemetery on Wednesday morning beginning at 10:45 a.m.

You are encouraged to visit Ethel’s permanent life celebration site at www.wrightfamily.com to light a candle of hope, leave messages of condolence, share words of comfort and recollection, and post photographs of her life.

Donations in her honor and memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation by clicking HERE.

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Wright & Ford, your local, family owned & operated “Life Celebration Home”

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