Ruth M. (Bendziewicz) Preston

Ruth (Bendziewicz) Preston, 91, of Lake Shawnee, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on November 14, 2025. Born on October 27, 1934, in Peckville, PA, Ruth spent most of her life in Lake Shawnee, where she created a loving home and built lasting friendships throughout the community. She was a long-standing member of Star of the Sea Church and a devoted parishioner throughout her many years in the community.

Ruth worked for many years at both Prudential and Picatinny Arsenal, where she was known for her reliability, strong work ethic, and warm presence. Her kindness touched everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her, whether through her professional life or her personal relationships.

A caring mother, a good friend, and a woman with a truly big heart, Ruth was known for her compassion and her gentle, thoughtful nature. She was the baker in the family—famous for her banana bread, coffee cake, and chocolate chip cookies, which she generously shared with those she loved. Her home was always filled with warmth, comfort, and the wonderful aromas of something fresh out of the oven.

Ruth is survived by her loving sons, Thomas and Robert, who will forever cherish her guidance, strength, and unconditional love. She deeply loved her four grandchildren Katie, Kelly, Jack and Emma.  She is predeceased by her husband, Thomas J. Preston, with whom she shared many years of partnership and devotion. She is also predeceased by her siblings Bob, Frank, Rich and Joan.

Ruth’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and love—a life lived with an open heart and a steady devotion to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held 5-8pm on Thursday November 20, at the Bermingham Funeral Home, 216 S. Main St., Wharton.  A Funeral Mass will be held 10am on Friday at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Lake Hopatcong.  Interment will follow at Locust Hill Cemetery in Dover.

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