Jennie Filipczyk

Born in Bialystok, Poland, on Oct. 22, 1927, to her late parents Anthony and Agatha Dmitruk, Jennie had been a resident of Manville, N.J., most of her life.

Jennie’s Polish roots were an important part of her character. Anyone who tasted her stuffed cabbage (Golabki) could attest to it. The Filipczyk’s were known for their prized tomatoes growing in the backyard garden. Jennie served them often as a signature side dish during summertime meals.

While she maintained a sweet disposition, Jennie loved to laugh with family and neighbors. The loving relationship she shared with her daughter made them seem more like sisters than mother and daughter. Jennie’s entire family meant the world to her as she beamed with pride speaking about her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Employed with her husband at Johns Manville, Jennie was a diligent, reliable, and hard worker. Together they enjoyed weekends at the Jersey Shore soaking in the sun on the beach or walking along the boardwalk. They also took excursions to Atlantic City’s casinos with their dear friends. Ultimately, Jennie cherished the time she spent sitting with her husband on their backyard covered swing, simply enjoying each other’s company.

Jennie is survived by her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Helena and Paul Olkowski of Fredonia, N.Y. She also leaves behind two adored grandchildren; Jennifer Wiles and her husband, Jeff of Brunswick, Ohio and grandson, Paul Olkowski and his wife, Deanna of Montclair, N.J.; along with four great grandchildren: Zachary and Brendan Wiles and Merrick and Pia Olkowski, all of whom will miss her dearly.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Filipczyk, who died in 2007. They were married for 61 years.

Funeral services will be held in Manville, N.J.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jennie’s name to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.

Jennie will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Hillsborough, N.J.

Arrangements have been made by McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home in Dunkirk, N.Y., and Bridgewater Funeral Home in Bridgewater Township, N.J.