While a life well-lived is often measured by the quality of one's years – and not just the quantity – Anna Marie "Anni" Rutkowski (nee Briamonte) was blessed with both. Born on March 3, 1921, in Jersey City, NJ, Anni graced our world with her smile, her laugh, her love and her delicious Italian knot cookies for more than a century. And her joyful spirit undoubtedly will carry on for a century more in the hearts of all who knew her.

After graduating from Snyder High School, Anni worked at the American Can Company for several years. In 1942, she married the love of her life, Edward "Eddie" Rutkowski. A stay-at-home mom for most of her three children's young lives, she later worked for her brother, Frank, at his restaurant in Jersey City, where her friendly demeanor made her the server every patron wanted working their table.

Anni and Eddie bought their first home in 1962 in the Country Village section of Jersey City. They were one of the first residents on the block, and they co-owned the two-family home with Anni's beloved sister, Theresa, and her husband, James. Anni lived in that house up until the day of her passing on November 30, 2023, and for every day of those 61 years, the home was filled with love and laughter. Family and friends were always welcome, greeted with a smile, and left feeling happier for having spent time there.

Over the years, Anni cherished time spent with her family – whether it was taking her kids on fun vacations, attending large (and loud) family parties, or just enjoying a quiet Sunday dinner. Her extended family meant the world to her, and she made each member of the family feel like he or she was the most loved person in the world

Anni was a longtime member of the Rosarians at Our Lady of Mercy Church and of the Our Lady of Mercy Seniors Club.

Anni is survived by her daughter, Diane Mittica (nee Rutkowski); her son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Debbie Rutkowski (nee Shine); her daughter-in-law, Arlene Rutkowski (nee Feldscher); her grandchildren, Craig, Anthony and Gloriann Rutkowski; and her great grandchildren, Daniel and Christian Mittica.

She is predeceased by her parents, Michael and Rose Briamonte (nee Graziano); her siblings, William, Frank, Vincent, Lucille and John Anthony Briamonte, and Maria "Theresa" Rousseau (nee Briamonte); her son, Edward ("Tex"); and her grandson, Dominic Mittica.

Visitation:

Wednesday, December 06, 2023

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Migliaccio Funeral Home & Cremation Services

851 Kennedy Blvd

Bayonne, NJ 07002

Funeral Mass:

Thursday, December 07, 2023

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Our Lady of Mercy Church

40 Sullivan Drive

Jersey City, NJ 07305