Obituary of Agnes Wahlquist

It is with heavy hearts that we must announce the passing of Agnes Wahlquist who passed away peacefully in Parsippany on December 21st, 2023 at the age of 95. Agnes was a loving aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

Agnes was born on March 9^th, 1928 in Brooklyn, New York where she grew up. Her mother passed away when she was only nine years old.  She became like a little mom to her two younger sisters and was very close to her father.  After successfully completing her high school graduation, she joined the workforce. Agnes was truly a jack of all trades. She worked as a secretary, maid, telephone surveyor at Opinion America, and at one point worked as a cab driver in Boston, Massachusetts. Whatever her field, she would work hard—at times even working for six months before traveling for the rest of the year.  Her favorite destinations were Sweden and Norway where she would fit right in and was proud to be somewhere that represented who she was.  She never came home empty handed and always had the most unique gifts.

Agnes lived in many places including several different Manhattan apartments.  She was well-read, always kept up with the newest health trends, and loved sharing her knowledge.  She learned reflexology and would help anyone in pain.  She enjoyed art and would sketch beautiful pictures of family and friends.  She was very generous and when she came into extra money she shared with those she loved. Agnes had the most infectious laugh that would light up a room. From a young child to a woman of 95, all who knew her would appreciate her giggling. She believed that what kept her looking so young was a healthy lifestyle of vitamins, exercise, and avoiding the sun.  She’d often joke that her lack of wrinkles was due to never marrying or having kids.

During her childhood in Brooklyn, she met her lifelong friend, Elvy Vedvik.  She became like an Aunt (Tante in Norwegian) to Elvy’s three daughters. Since Elvy was an only child and all other relatives were in Norway, it was perfect to have a Tante Agnes. Agnes was always with them for the holidays and good times; and was a great comfort during the hard times.  No matter how often Agnes told this family how lucky she was to have them, they knew that they were the lucky ones after all.

Agnes leaves behind her nieces and nephews to continue her memory; Sandy (Mark) Chabza, Joel (Lydia) Chabza, James Chabza, William (Stephanie) Chabza, Dana Gary, Susan Colbert, and Lisa Kotouch. Elvy’s daughters: her goddaughter Ellen (Peter) Lodato,  Lori (Tim) Vedvik and Kim (Greg) Dwyer. Along with many other loving family and friends.

All services for Agnes are currently private. Please check back in Spring of 2024 for more details. She will be laid to rest with her father in Massachusetts.  Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Agnes in celebration of her life.