Denise Rostel (nee: Giulias) 64, of Union passed away at home on May 1, 2014, surrounded by loving family. Raised in Edison, she lived in Union the past 40 years.

Denise was a Home Economics teacher for 25 years, in Westfield, South Orange and the past 10 years in WoodbridgeTownship retiring in 2012. She graduated from J.P.StevensHigh School, Edison in 1968, where she was the proud recipient of the Top German Student award. In 1972 she graduated from DouglasCollege. Denise was a life long parishioner of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Perth Amboy. She was a founding member of People for Animals, in Hillside. She adored all animals, rescuing dozens of strays and finding loving homes for them. She was known to brave horrible weather conditions to catch a homeless dog or cat, and provide it comfort and shelter. Denise loved family gatherings and prepared wonderful formal dinners. She also loved gardening, particularly planting flowers at her home as well as her mother's house. Her other passion was traveling and she particularly loved the UK, visiting it over 10 times. Most recently Denise and her husband fulfilled along time dream of visiting the Christmas Markets in Germany. Denise loved collecting antique napkin rings and old postcards of Perth Amboy and Sarasota. Denise was predeceased by her father, Peter Giulias in 2004. She is survived by her adoring husband Arthur, and loving son, Christopher, her mother, Florence Giulias, her sisters, Debbie Cammarata and her husband Jerry, Dawn De Rosa and her husband Victor, her brother Peter and his wife Teresa, brother-in law, Joe Rostel and his wife Maryann and sister-in-law, Justine Rostel and her late husband Richard.

She is also survived by nephews Gregory, Jason, Michael, and nieces Erica, Alexis, Lori, Kelly and Kim. In addition to her family and friends, Denise will be greatly missed by her beloved dogs, Justin and Frisky and cats, Emily and Sandy.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM on Monday May 5, 2014 at Flynn and Son Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave, Fords with a 11 AM Service of Divine Liturgy at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Perth Amboy. Interment will follow at St.GertrudeCemetery, Colonia. Visitation will be Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM with a 7:30 Trisagion Service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to People For Animals Inc. 401 Hillside Ave, Hillside, NJ 07205 or to Best Friend Dog and Adoption Inc. PO Box 335, Cranford, NJ 07016 or to a charity of your choice.