Obituary of Rowen Brea Altenburger

Rowen Brea Altenburger, 18, of Short Hills, NJ passed on from this world last Tuesday, February 11th. Rowan was born at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC at 4:31 PM, September 14th, 1995 to parents Eric Tage Altenburger and Elizabeth Ann Barrett-Altenburger. Rowen grew up in Short Hills with her family and younger sister Ava Marie, graduating Millburn High School with top marks. She moved to New York City in September of 2013 to pursue her education at NYU's prestigious Gallatin School. Rowen was an exceptional young woman who pursued knowledge and art with unique fervor. She found inspiration in many subjects while offering the same to all of the friends and family members who were blessed by her kindness, honesty, and rare spirit. Her love of travel, culture, literature, and the arts cultivated a remarkable heart and an open mind. She was the recipient of the 2013 Scholastic Art & Writing Gold Key Award, as well as a recognition for excellence in visual arts by the Montclair Art Museum. Rowen's beloved family extends to her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends. Through their love and the love she gave, Rowen lives on in many wonderful ways. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Rowen's honor can be made through The RBA (Rowen Brea Altenburger) Foundation at http://causewish.com/project/rowen-brea-altenburger-foundation Visit http://www.ilasting.com/rowenaltenburger/photos.php to share stories and photos. Visitation will be held at Jacob A Holle Funeral Home, 2122 Millburn Avenue, Maplewood, NJ on Friday, February 21 from 4:00-8:00 pm. A service at the Unitarian Church in Summit, 4 Waldron Avenue, will be held on Saturday, February 22 at 11:00am where the Altenburger Family welcomes all to join in the celebration of Rowen's life by sharing their stories and memories.