Ingrid Karin Marxen, aged 85, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully June 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born in Sept. 16, 1940, in Pinneberg, Germany, to the late Heinz and Gertrude Drews. She was the devoted and loving wife of Horst Marxen, with whom she shared decades of beautiful memories until his passing five years ago.
Ingrid was a long-time, well-known resident of Fair Haven, where she raised her family and formed deep roots in the community. Later in life, her journey took her to Norfolk, Virginia, and Charlotte, North Carolina, before she ultimately returned to her true happy place: her beloved Sea Girt. The coastal town, the tight-knit community, and the proximity to the ocean brought her immense joy in her final years, especially bringing the grandkids to the beach when they were all younger.
Ingrid lived life with an infectious energy and a passion for the things she loved. She thoroughly enjoyed always being outdoors, mostly tending to her garden. She was also an avid athlete and could often be found playing tennis in the summer months, skiing in the winter months, and biking most of the year – all with the many friends whom she made along the way.
Above all else, Ingrid’s greatest passion was her family. She was happiest when she was around them, laughing, storytelling and sharing meals with loved ones gathered around the table.
Ingrid’s warmth, strength and compassion will be forever missed by those she leaves behind. She is survived by her two loving children: Ulf Marxen and his wife Carrie of Rumson and her daughter Birgit Criqui and her husband Marc of Essex Fells. She was the incredibly proud “Oma” to her five cherished grandchildren, who were the absolute light of her life: Ryan, Lindsay and Greta Criqui, and Tyler and Jack Marxen.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent in Ingrid’s memory to No Limits Café, 418 Route 35, Red Bank, NJ 07701 or at online at nolimitscafe.org.
A private family gathering will be held in her honor. John E. Day Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the July 2 – 8, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
