Obituary of Marita A. Lindlau

Marita Ann Lindlau, 81, artist, passed away peacefully in Montclair, NJ, on March 8, 2023. 

Born in New Jersey to Wesley and Mary Lindahl, Marita spent her elementary school and early high school years in New Hampshire until the family, now with her younger brother Robert, moved back to Montclair. There, she completed high school and began several lifelong friendships. Marita graduated from the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts before beginning her art career at Norcross Greeting Card Company in New York. She later devoted her time to raising her children, while also teaching art at various locations. Eventually, she resumed her career as a merchandiser and then a graphic artist in the advertising departments of Hahne’s Department Store and Toys R Us. In retirement, she continued to teach at the Bloomfield Art League. 

Throughout her life, Marita continued to create art of her own as a talented portrait artist in different mediums, from pencil drawings to oil paintings and later pastels. She was a long-time and dedicated member of the Art Centre of New Jersey. She was also a member of the Pastel Society of New Jersey. Her artwork could be seen in many juried shows over the years, often winning awards. 

Marita is survived by her son, Michael Lindlau and his husband Frank, and daughters Karen Grazide and her husband Paul, and Debra Walsh and her husband Will. She was a loving and devoted grandmother to Lenny, Justin, Ethan, and Willie. She will be loved and missed by all who knew her. 

The family will receive visitors at the Dangler Funeral Home, 340 Main Street, West Orange, on Wednesday, March 15th from 3 to 6:30 pm. Funeral service will be held immediately following visitation at 6:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Art Centre of NJ, 284 Beaufort Ave, bldg 501, studio 10, Livingston, NJ 07039-1042 or to Covenant House at http://www.covenanthouse.org/donation-options