Stanley T Rutkowski

Stanley Thomas Rutkowski, known affectionately as "Babe," passed away on July 8, 2024, at the age of 75 in Clermont, FL. Born on May 8, 1949, in Bayonne, NJ, he grew up in a close-knit community that shaped his kind and compassionate nature. 

Stanley attended Bayonne High School, where he graduated with his diploma, marking the beginning of a life full of dedication and service. He served honorably in the Army Reserves for six years. 

Following his military service, Stanley embarked on a career as a small business owner in Manahawkin, NJ, and its surrounding areas. His work was not just a profession but a way to uplift his community. He was deeply involved in local governance, serving as a town councilman and briefly as the interim mayor, always striving to support fellow small business owners and residents. 

A man of faith, Stanley was raised in the Roman Catholic tradition, where he attended Mt. Carmel Grammar School, which guided his ethical framework and charitable actions throughout his life. His personality was marked by humor and kindness, and he cherished nothing more than time spent with his family and friends. Sports played a significant role in his life, especially football. He was a passionate New York Giants fan, holding season tickets and never missing a chance to support his team with loved ones by his side. 

Stanley is survived by his loving wife, Joann Lapinski, his children, Jaime and Justin, his siblings, Kathy Caperton (Powel), Stephen Rutkowski, and Alberta Signoretta (Rutkowski), brother in-law, Nick Signoretta, his sister in-law, Lynn Scalia (Lapinski) and brother in-law, Ken Scalia and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jane Rutkowski (Kosakowski) and Stephen Rutkowski, and nephews, Nicholas Signoretta and Jeffrey Jankowski.

 Details of the memorial services are still being determined. The family is being assisted by Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home in Winter Garden, FL. Stanley's life and legacy will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him.