Remembering Ursula Pelle
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Ursula Pelle, a beloved trustee, educator, and advocate for the arts.
Ursula’s presence at CMDE was a quiet yet profound force, and her dedication to our community left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
For over 17 years, Ursula served as a trustee for CMDE, bringing her thoughtful perspective, unwavering commitment, and deep passion for music and the arts. Though she may have been shy at times, her advocacy was anything but quiet. Whether through her involvement in CMDE’s dancercise classes or her participation in our open houses, where she embraced new experiences with an adventurous spirit; Ursula embodied the spirit of lifelong learning and curiosity.
As a music educator, Ursula touched countless lives with her intelligence, kindness, and generosity. Ursula wore many hats. She was a mother, a mime, a grandmother, and a character in the truest sense; a woman of depth and warmth who brought joy and laughter wherever she went. Her dedication extended beyond CMDE; she was also a board member of a mime-accompanying school, a testament to her belief in the universal language of performance and expression.
One of the many things that made Ursula special was her thoughtfulness. She remembered to bring cards for every special occasion, a small but meaningful gesture that reflected her care and attention to the people around her. Whether it was a milestone, a celebration, or simply a moment of connection, Ursula’s presence was a gift.
To her family, especially her daughter Laura, with whom she shared a love for modern dance, we extend our deepest condolences.
Let us honor her memory by carrying forward the light she brought into every room she entered. Ursula’s legacy reminds us that the arts are not just about performance; they are about connection, about the quiet moments of joy, and about the courage to try new things. Whether through a dance class, a mime performance, or a simple card on a special day, she showed us how to live with intention, kindness, and a deep love for the world around us.
Send your stories/memories of dancing with Ursula to info@cmde.org
Remembering Ruth Bauer Neustadter
We honor and remember Hackensack’s own artistic legend, and CMDE Board Member, Ruth Bauer Neustadter.
Ruth was a visionary mixed-media artist, a passionate dancer, choreographer, and a tireless champion for local arts. She was instrumental in founding the art gallery at HACPAC, which now proudly bears her name.
Ruth’s legacy is permanently woven into the fabric of our community. We send our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and everyone who has been touched by her brilliance.
Ruth was a special education teacher at East Side High School in Newark for many years. Ruth advocated fiercely for her students, supporting disability education and rights and developing lifelong meaningful relationships with her students. Ruth followed her moral compass and rallied for climate change, social justice, antiwar efforts, and children’s rights all over the world.
In a world full of conformists and copycats, Ruth paved her own way and encouraged the community to join her through every journey. Where some saw garbage, Ruth saw art, meaning, and value. May we all remember the wonderful and beautiful life and work of Ruth Bauer Neustadter. Ruth’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the arts she championed, and the community she nurtured.
Let us honor her memory by continuing her work: by fostering inclusivity, embracing creativity, dancing, and supporting one another with the same compassion and dedication she showed us all.
Send your stories/memories of dancing with Ruth to info@cmde.org
Circa early 50s. From the left: Unknown, Judy Schwartz (Shirley’s best friend and early Studio teacher), Ruth Bauer Neustadter, Mimi (her sister), unknown, Shirley Ubell. The Ubell’s residency in Paramus.