Florence Clara Rutkowski, 82, a longtime resident of Erie, PA, passed away August 10, 2014 at Edinboro Manor, in Edinboro, PA. Florence was born September 27, 1932 in Waterford, PA, to Theodore and Waleria Rutkowski.

Rutkowski, Florence ClaraAfter graduation from Waterford High School, Florence worked for ten years for General Telephone. She then attended Hickson’s School of Floral Design and worked for Allburn Florists before opening her own business, Flowers by Florence, in Waterford. She later opened a second Flowers by Florence in North East. Because of health reasons she later sold both businesses and worked at St. Mary’s Home in Erie, retiring from there after twenty years of service.

Florence is survived by a brother, Eugene (Elizabeth) Rutkowski of New Bethlehem, PA; sisters-in-law Pauline Rutkowski of Erie and Alice Rutkowski of North East; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Florence was preceded in death by her brothers Edmund, Theodore Jr., Raymond, Benjamin, Leo, John, Matthew, and Rev. Fr. Edward Rutkowski, and her sisters Bertha Rutkowski, Anna Wehan, Irene Lewandoski, and Thelma Laufenberg.

Friends may call Tuesday, August 12, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. at Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford, PA. Interment will follow at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in McKean, PA.