Gertrude “Gertie” Rutkowski of Florida, NY, a lifelong resident of the area, entered into rest on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at home. She was 89.

The daughter of the late John Slesinski and Elizabeth Michalowski Slesinski, she was born on July 28, 1934 in Pine Island, NY.

Gertie retired from AMSCAN in Chester, NY, where she worked for 17 years. She was a member of St. Joseph Church, Florida, NY; a member of St. Joseph Church Living Rosary Society; and a member of the Hudson Valley Polonaise Society. She loved her dogs and she enjoyed cooking, crafts, gardening and was known for her green thumb. But most of all, she cherished her loving family.

Gertie met the love of her life at a local birthday party. They were married at St. Stanislaus Church and settled in Florida, NY. Ray and Gertie were avid polka supporters for many years and were known to travel with their daughters, attending many polka events.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia L. Zak and husband Tom; daughter, Darlene Fuller (Mike Cosentino); daughter, Melanie Bilancione and husband John; 3 granddaughters, Sara Tkazyik and husband John; Heather Wolfe and husband Kent; and Aimee Bilancione; 4 great grandchildren; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Ray Rutkowski; brother, John Slesinski and sister, Adele Kurdyla.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 5th from 2-6pm at T.S. Purta Funeral Home, 22 Glenmere Avenue, Florida, NY 10921.

A funeral mass will be held 10:30 AM Monday, November 6th at St. Joseph Church, Florida, NY.

Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Florida, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Church Restoration Fund, 14 Glenmere Avenue, Florida, NY 10921.