“It’s about bringing everyday beauty into our lives, appreciating what we have and then touching each other’s lives in some small way. That’s what my work is about.”
Mariana Vrahnos

Mariana Vrahnos, 61, of Lambertville, died Sept. 5 from head injuries sustained when she was hit by a car while cycling on Route 571 in Millstone Township. The driver of the car stopped and called 911.

Her sudden passing has devastated her life partner and soulmate, Claudio Zancani, her family, friends, and the Lambertville community. Mariana was loved and celebrated for her kindness, compassion, and devotion to friends and family. She shared her unique talents and vision with a wide circle of loyal friends and loving family. She raised her son Demetri with the same emphasis on the importance of health, gratitude, and appreciation of nature and beauty. She was very close to her mother Brigitta and visited her frequently at her home in the United Kingdom.

A gifted massage therapist, Mariana founded the Four Hands Massage, a successful massage therapy and wellness business. Her massage philosophy combined various techniques with a holistic approach to wellness. Clients describe an extraordinary, transformative massage experience as intense, yet gentle and loving. All spoke of the special energy that flowed from her as she carried them forward on a truly healing journey. She was a gift.

Mariana’s passion for the outdoors informed everything she did. She brought that enthusiasm to others, inspiring them to share her joy in and the benefits of hiking, yoga, swimming, and especially cycling. She was a popular member of the cycling community and she and Claudio participated multiple times in the annual Anchor House Foundation Ride for Runaways, raising funds for the Trenton-based charity.

A talented actress, Mariana appeared in a number of area productions, winning accolades for her performances in plays such as The Lion in Winter, Equus, and many others. As giving in death as she was in life, Mariana’s wish was to be an organ donor. Because of her healthful philosophy, she was able to pass on the gift of life to three recipients.

Mariana was born in the London Borough of Lambeth on Dec. 22, 1961. She grew up in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom, and graduated from High Wycombe College of Higher Education. She brought her unique style, grace, and beauty to every aspect of her life, understanding the power of simple, meaningful efforts to connect and enrich the lives of countless others.

Mariana is survived by her partner, Claudio Zancani of Lambertville, her mother Brigitta Muller, of Frinton-on-Sea, United Kingdom, and her son Demetri Vrahnos of Hamilton.

A private burial will be held for the family and many different Celebrations of Life will be planned in the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Anchor House Foundation in Trenton, New Jersey, or the Animal Alliance, in Lambertville, New Jersey.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Garefino Funeral Home in Lambertville.