Michelle L. Mezger

Sussex- Michelle L. Mezger, age 54 peacefully passed away with her loving family by her side on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Newton Medical Center after a two year battle with cancer. Michelle fought her battle with cancer with remarkable strength and courage, giving it everything she had and inspiring those around her with her determination and resilience. Born in Newton on August 6, 1971, Michelle attended Newton public schools and graduated Newton High School in 1989. While she was in high school, she began working for the County of Sussex, which was the beginning of her lifelong career of 36.9 years. Michelle held several titles over the years, working for many departments and divisions before she proudly served as secretary to the Department Administrator of Engineering and Planning, serving the current and past two County engineers. Above all, she deeply cherished the friendships she built with her co-workers, who meant so much to her throughout the years. These friendships she formed with her co-workers meant so much to her. They became like family, and even after her retirement they continued to check in on her, a testament to the deep bonds she created throughout the years. Despite the challenges she faced, Michelle continued to cherish life’s simple joys that brought her happiness. She especially loved trips to the beach, with Myrtle Beach holding a special place in her heart. At home, she proudly kept an extensive collection of “snow people” that brought her great happiness all throughout the year. Sunflowers were among her favorite flowers, and she looked forward each year to the beauty and comfort of the autumn season. Michelle also enjoyed shopping and spending time out and about. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her warmth, strength, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Michelle was predeceased by her grandparents, the Rev. Daniel and Dorothy Kantenwein; her uncles, Russell Kantenwein and W. Daniel Kantenwein; her step-father, George Sherman, Jr.; and her step-brother, George Sherman, III. She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Michael Mezger; her son, David Gardner and his fiancé Jessica; her mother, Sara Sherman; her brother, Stan Gardner; nieces, Victoria and Hanna Gardner; and her aunts, Patricia Kantenwein and her late husband Russell, Sophia Kanteinwein and her late husband W. Daniel, and Amy Garrett and her husband Bill; and her cousins and their families. Friends may pay their respects to the family from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026 at the Pinkel Funeral Home, 31 Bank Street (Route 23), Sussex. Funeral services will immediately follow at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Michelle’s memory to the Wantage Township First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 721, Sussex, New Jersey 07461. Michelle supported this organization because of the positive work they do for the community. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.pinkelfuneralhome.com

Michelle L. Mezger

August 6, 1971 - March 8, 2026