At the age of 38, Jennifer Panek, formerly known as Jennifer West, was discovered deceased in a park located in New Jersey. She was known and loved as a committed spouse, devoted parent of two children and a former educator specializing in special needs. Jennifer Panek had been a beloved figure in our community during her time in the borough, before moving to Middlesex, New Jersey where she resided with her husband, Justin, and their two children. Her friends and family have expressed their heartfelt grief and shared warm memories of Jennifer.
Jennifer Panek had dedicated about a decade of her working life to Eden II as a certified teacher assistant, meaningfully impacting the lives of the children she worked with. Joanne Gerenser, current Executive Director of Eden II, shared Panek’s profound influence on both the students and their families. The institution, centered on providing quality education and supportive services for children living with autism, is mourning the loss of such a cherished individual, said Ms. Gerenser.
Part of Panek’s rich legacy at Eden II was her work with various groups of students. Among these were children who had progressed remarkably well under their taught regime, reaching a level where they were prepared to transition into less restrictive, more mainstream environments. Her dedication to these children, their growth and their future, was exemplary.
Conor Paulsen, a resident of Oakwood and previous student of Eden II, fondly remembers his time with Jennifer Panek. She had been an integral part of his life and his learning journey at Eden II. According to Paulsen, Panek aided him in managing difficult feelings and situations through teaching him effective calming strategies. He holds her in high regard and credits her for the person he’s become today. Her love and impact left a permanent imprint on his life.
Lauren Grimaldi, who headed the early childhood program at Eden II, spoke openly about having Panek as an assistant teacher, describing the experience as nothing short of delightful. She emphasized Panek’s firm belief in all aspects that made up Eden II’s mission and her unwavering dedication to the cause.
Marie Perani, a fellow teacher who had the privilege to collaborate with Panek in a classroom setting, also had high praises for her. Panek, according to Perani, was an active part of the school happenings, fervently ensuring that all students were given the opportunity to learn to their maximum potential. Her commitment was unyielding, and her impact, profound.
Sadly, the life of Jennifer Panek was abruptly cut short. Her body was discovered one unfortunate Saturday afternoon in Haverstick Park. This was a day after her family had reported her missing. A joint statement was released soon after by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the local Police Department declaring she was pronounced dead at the scene.
As of the following Monday, the circumstances leading to her death remain a mystery. The cause of her death and manner are yet to be determined and announced by the Middlesex County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. The investigation is ongoing, spurred by the tragic and unexpected demise of a beloved member of the community.
The authorities have sought the public’s assistance in the ongoing investigation. Detective Paul Cerreto of the Middlesex Police Department and Detective Ryan Kirsh from the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office have requested anyone possessing any useful information or surveillance footage of the related area to step forward.