Ellen Baier Shyne, 87, passed away gently, surrounded by loved ones, Sept. 12, 2025. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Elizabeth (Mastropietro) Baier, and a sister, Marie Sardella.
While born and raised in Jersey City, Ellen spent the majority of her life in Middletown, where she was a devoted parishioner at St. Mary, Mother of God Church.
She was the proud mother of Joan Marie Zielinski (Joseph) and Jeffrey (Annie) Shyne, and the beloved grandmother of Nicolas (Aislinn), Gabriella and Alexander (Mikayla) Shyne. Ellen is also survived by her sister, Johanna Jankowski; five nieces and nephews; seven great-nieces and nephews; seven great-grand-nieces and nephews; and one great-great-grand-niece.
Ellen was a dedicated employee of Penske Automotive (formerly DiFeo Automotive) in Jersey City, where she worked faithfully for 45 years in a variety of roles, culminating in an executive assistant role. She will be remembered for her diligence, loyalty and the many friendships she built during her long career.
Family was at the center of Ellen’s life. She cherished gatherings with her children and grandchildren. Her kindness, generosity, humor and steadfast devotion will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to extend special thanks to her niece and nephew, Joann and David Wecker, for the loving care and support they provided. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends and all who were blessed to know her.
A memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 18 at St. Mary, Mother of God. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ellen’s memory to the charity of your choice.
The article originally appeared in the September 25 – October 1, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
