Marilyn Minster-Ostheimer, 87, a community leader who operated Minster’s Jewelers in Newark for nearly seven decades, passed away on Dec. 28.
Her son, Will Minster, announced her passing in a Facebook post on Saturday.
Marilyn guided the operations Minster’s, a 122-year-old business, following its move from Elkton, MD to Newark.
The store specializes in custom jewelry as well as watches and repair services.
Minster-Ostheimer chaired the Downtown Newark Partnership for years and championed the transformation of a downtown area that in 2012 was named one of the top Main streets in America.
The partnership is comprised of the City of Newark, downtown businesses and the University of Delaware.
She was known for working behind the scenes on improving the downtown area and for keeping the jewelry store going as the Newark Shopping Center went through a steep decline.
The center on the east end of Main Street has since undergone a major renovation.
At Marilyn’s request, services will be held privately and at the family’s convenience.
