Obituary of Dale Westwood

Dale Westwood, 88, formerly of Red Bank, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024, in Matawan, NJ. Born on May 31, 1936, in Jersey City, NJ, Dale was the cherished daughter of Eva and Ruby Etzler and grew up surrounded by the love of a close-knit, multi-generational family. Dale’s early life was marked by her vibrant spirit and wide-ranging interests—the stage, cheerleading, philosophy, and design, among others—while maintaining a strong bond with her cousins, who remained lifelong friends.

After graduating from Henry Snyder High School in 1954, Dale embarked on a journey of love and adventure. She met Alvin Garfin during a summer in the Catskills, and they married in 1956. Together, they had three children: Susan, Brian, and Jeffrey. Despite the heartbreaking loss of their infant son Brian, Dale and Alvin’s commitment to their family remained steadfast. 

In 1969, the family relocated to Fair Lawn, NJ, where Dale’s passion for fashion and design found a new outlet in furniture sales. Her exceptional talent, love of people, and infectious enthusiasm soon made her a standout salesperson and a sought-after interior designer. Following her separation from Alvin in the late 1970s, Dale demonstrated remarkable resilience. She co-founded a Beauty Spa Wrap Salon in Hackensack, which thrived under her charismatic influence. After selling the salon in the 1980s, she returned to her roots in furniture design. 

While living in Hackensack, Dale met Robert Westwood through a mutual friend and the relationship blossomed. They were married in 1986 but sadly only had 10 years together before he passed away after a long illness.   

In 1988, Dale's life took on a new dimension with the birth of her first granddaughter. Her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy, and she formed a special bond with her granddaughter, sharing a love for fashion and Broadway shows. Dale’s family grew to include three grandsons, each of whom she adored deeply. Family gatherings became highlights of her life, where her warmth and love were ever-present. 

In the 2000s, Dale met Izzy, a kind and adventurous soul who became her life partner. Together, they explored the world, creating countless memories. After Izzy’s sudden passing, Dale’s strength shone through as she moved to the New Jersey Shore, a place of fond memories from her past. She later settled in Red Bank, where she enjoyed the vibrant community and continued to cherish life.

Dale found love and wonderful companionship again with Ron, who brought so much joy and vitality to her later years. Together, they embraced life’s pleasures along the New Jersey Shore, from dancing and exploring deep cut gardens, to attending concerts on the boardwalk. Ron’s love and support was instrumental in enabling Dale to face the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease with courage and grace. 

Dale was predeceased by her parents, her baby son Brian, her beloved sister Sondra, and her life partner Izzy. She leaves behind her partner Ron Trincieri; her children, Susan Johnson and Jeffrey Garfin; her grandchildren, Kelley Goins, Adam Johnson, Max Garfin, and Alex Garfin; her great-granddaughter, Junie Goins; and her brother, Mark Etzler.

Family and friends are invited to a graveside service at the Freehold Hebrew Benefit Society Cemetery in Freehold on Friday, September 13, at 12 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at Lemon in Freehold. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Dale’s life was a testament to her unwavering spirit, boundless love, and the joy she brought to those around her. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.