Robert C. Marince, 76, died Wednesday, July 4, at St. Francis Medical Center, Trenton.
Born in Morrisdale, Pa., he was a longtime Lawrence resident.
He served with the Army First Infantry Division during World War II and received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Combat Infantry Badge.
He graduated from Duquesne University and Trenton State College, now The College of New Jersey, where he received the first master’s degree in the Music Educators program.
He established music programs at high schools in Ellsworth, Pa., and Millville before joining Lawrence public schools in 1952. He retired after 40 years as director of music education and fine arts administrator. After retiring he taught private lessons at the House of Music.
Mr. Marince was named one of the top ten school directors of music in the United States by School Musicians Magazine and received the New Jersey Arts Council of Merit Award, Duquesne University Mid-East Honor Award, National ASTA String Music Service Achievement Award and the New Jersey Governor’s Arts Award. He conducted many regional and All-State orchestras and founded the Lawrence, Woodbridge and Sussex community orchestras; the Catholic Young Adult Club Chorus and the St. Gregory Male Choir. He was chairman of the Stokes Music Competition and conducted the American Legion Boys’ State program for 30 years.
He was a past president of Lawrence Township Lions Club.
Son of the late John and Mary Sotak Marince, father of the late Martin and brother of the late Edward, Alfred and John, he is survived by his wife, Constance; a son, Thomas of Ewing; two sisters, Theresa of Dallas and Marie of Morrisdale; and a brother, Paul of Prescott, Ariz.
Burial will be in Ewing Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors, Lawrence Road.
