Obituary of Santa Ann Kinzler

Santa Arena Kinzler, age 80, of Manalapan, passed away at home surrounded by family. She was born in 1941 to Rose and Nunzio Arena, on the west side of Manhattan.  She attended Holy Cross Catholic Grammar School and graduated from Cathedral High School in 1958. Santa’s first job was in the accounting department of McGraw Hill Publishing Company and then worked for Bill Brothers Publishing Company.  Upon moving to Manalapan, Santa was employed by the Manalapan-Englishtown School District as a cafeteria aide.  She also worked for St. Thomas More Catholic Church as a clerk and housekeeper.  Santa loved volunteering, especially for senior citizens.  She devoted many hours to the residents of Applewood and Brandywine Assisted Living.  Faith was very important to her.  Santa was a member of the Rosary Society, Leisure Club, Decorating Committee, Lazarus Committee and a Eucharistic Minister at St. Thomas More Church.  In her later years she became a communicant of the Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine.  Santa was an excellent cook who was best known for her lasagna and cheesecake.  She loved to make people laugh and was a loyal friend.  Santa was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and Nanny to her two grandsons.

She is survived by her husband Paul, of 60 years, her son Nick and wife Diane, her daughter Debra and husband Michael Hickey, her sister Toni Arena and partner John Marchi, brother John and wife Mary Ann Arena, grandsons Christopher and Nicholas, nephews, and cousins in both the United States and in Italy.  Santa will be deeply missed by her family and many treasured friends.

Due to COVID concerns, funeral services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warriors, Disabled American Veterans (20 Washington Place, Newark, NJ 07102) and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

Arrangements are under the care of Freeman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence, please visit www.freemanfuneralhomes.com