Hoboken, NJ / Albuquerque, NM — Gina Marie Cardinali, born May 9, 1968, in Jersey City, New Jersey, passed away on November 27, 2025.
Gina was the daughter of the late John “Yosh” and Mary Cardinali and the beloved sister of John Cardinali. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Natascha Birkmayer.
Growing up on Garden Street in Hoboken, she embraced her community, her friendships, and the close-knit family bonds that shaped her generous and caring spirit. She held a deep love for family and tradition, cherishing holidays and any gatherings that connected generations.
A proud graduate of Upsala College, Gina was active in her Tau Beta Sigma sorority and treasured the friendships and experiences she gained there. She went on to earn a master’s degree in social work from Fordham University, dedicating her career to helping others.
Gina moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she lived for the last 25 years. There, she served with distinction as a published researcher at the University of New Mexico, making meaningful contributions to her field and touching the lives of many colleagues and students.
Gina had an adventurous and open spirit. She traveled widely, exploring Africa, Nepal, the Middle East, Europe and all parts of the US, embracing new cultures and experiences with curiosity and joy. She also had a deep passion for dancing, sharing her love of movement at celebrations and gatherings.
Gina is survived by her daughter, Natascha, along with extended family, countless friends, and colleagues who will forever cherish her memory.
Gina was loved by so many people to truly honor her memory we’ve planned the following celebration of life services:
Hoboken
FRIDAY, JAN 16, 2026
10:30 AM
Funeral Mass will be offered at Saint Ann’s Roman Catholic Church
704 Jefferson Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Gina will be laid to rest with her father John “Yosh” and her mother Mary at Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Rd, North Arlington, NJ 07031
For more details please contact Jeanine Kent at jeaninemkent@gmail.com or Pauline Carides at paulinecnj@msn.com
Albuquerque
FRIDAY DEC. 19, 2025
4pm – 7pm
Double Time Dance Studio
209 Washington St. SE
Albuquerque, NM 87108
For more details please contact: Mari Anixter 464-300-3918 or mari.anixter@gmail.com
“May her memory be a blessing”