After a courageous battle with cancer, which inspired all who knew her, Gerlinde Ord, 53, a Princeton area resident for over 20 years, passed away on July 3 at her home.
Gerlinde was born in Bielefeld, Germany in 1958. After graduating from the University of Muenster, Germany with a degree in English, she moved to New Jersey in 1984. Passionate about languages, Gerlinde started a private tutoring service for those interested in learning German. In 2001, she began what she described as her "dream job", working as an Assistant Professor of German at Rider University's Westminster Choir College teaching students the necessary language to fully appreciate and master many of classical music's famous works.

Gerlinde enjoyed so much of what the Princeton area has to offer, including frequenting a great variety of shows at McCarter Theater and participating in the adult volleyball league for many years. She established a wide and diverse circle of friends, which was a true reflection of her interest in all that life has to offer. She exuded strength and vitality, and had a ready laugh, helping to remind us all to enjoy the good times when we can. Gerlinde became a US citizen in 2006.

Before leaving Germany, Gerlinde met Nick Ord, originally from Great Britain, who became her husband in 1984. She is survived by her husband, their daughter Helena (the pride and joy of Gerlinde's life), her sister, Susanne, and numerous other relatives and close friends both in the Princeton area and around the world. Gerlinde was taken from us all far too soon and will be sadly missed forever.

Services are private. A memorial will be held at a time and place to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Westminster Choir College, 101 Walnut Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540, in support of the Gerlinde Ord German Book Award. Please make checks payable to "Westminster of Rider University" with Gerlinde Ord Book Award on the memo line. Any questions, call Meaghan Crawford at 896-5000 x 7508.