Joan Rutkowski

Joan Rutkowski, age 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on January 4, 2026. She was born on July 11, 1942, and lived a life centered on love, family, and togetherness.

Joan spent most of her life in Williamstown, New Jersey, where she built a home filled with music, laughter, and an open door to anyone who needed a place at the table. Family was always her greatest joy. She loved nothing more than having everyone together—especially during family parties—sitting around the table, sharing stories, drinking coffee, and enjoying each other’s company.

She was a devoted mother to her six children: Jan Quattrocchi, Rochelle Bruce, William (Christine) Perna, Mary Perna, Susan Perna and the late Scott Perna. Joan was the proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense pride and happiness. Beyond her family by blood, Joan had many dear friends who were truly considered family in every sense of the word.

Joan had a deep love for music, live bands, motorcycles, and a lifelong enthusiasm for NASCAR racing. Race days were especially meaningful to her, always cheering with passion and a familiar rallying cry: “GO LOGANO!”

Joan Rutkowski will be remembered for her warmth, her generous heart, her sense of humor, and her unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the many generations she nurtured and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. “All the way, all the way!”

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Saturday, January 10th from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the Bell-Hennessy Funeral Home, 420 S. Main St., Williamstown. Funeral Services will follow at 11:00 AM. Cremation private.

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