Jean A. Bruetsch

Jean Ann (Curry) Bruetsch
February 26, 1934 – February 21, 2026

GLEN AUBREY, NY – Jean Ann Bruetsch, 91, peacefully left this earthly life on February 21, 2026, to reunite with her husband, Harold, her daughter, Deborah, and many loved ones awaiting her in heaven.

Born and raised in Johnson City, NY, Jean attended St. James Parochial School and graduated from Johnson City High School. Following a career in the local grocery industry, she met her life partner, Harold Bruetsch. Together, they raised two daughters and settled in Glen Aubrey, where they owned and operated the Octagon Inn and Country Store for 26 years before enjoying a well-earned retirement.

Jean was predeceased by her husband and "rock," Harold; her beloved daughter, Deborah; her parents, Rita (Holmes-Curry) and James Lainhart; sisters, June Kinney and Joyce Shafer; and brother, James T. Lainhart. As the matriarch of her family, Jean’s passing marks the end of her generation, leaving her family to proudly carry her torch forward.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, including her devoted daughter, Barbara Wittig (Fiancé Todd Frederick); her cherished grandchildren, Cody (Chevee) Wittig, Paige (Tim) Ballard, Sydney (Vito) Aiello, and Melanie Frederick; and her adored great-grandchildren, Easton, Lydia, Waylon, Sunny Jean, Jack, Alexandria, and Salvatore. She is also survived by many spoiled nieces and nephews, her lifelong best friend, Evelyn Edson, the Edson family, and countless community members who knew her simply as “Aunt Jean.”

A pillar of her community, Jean served as a Councilwoman for the Town of Nanticoke. She was a fierce advocate for community health, the Glen Aubrey Fire Station, and local seniors. Her civic contributions—including organizing the Glen Aubrey "Old Home Days," the local Bicentennial, and numerous fundraisers—earned her the Woman of the Year award. A former 4-H and Girl Scout leader, Jean’s door was always open to the neighborhood children she loved so dearly.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Jean’s dedicated aides—Kasi, Darlene, Tina, Mindy, Lisa, Danielle, and Lilli—for their exceptional care.

Services:
A Mass celebrating Jean’s faith will be held at St. James Church, 147 Main St, Johnson City, NY, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 AM until the time of service. A gathering of remembrance will follow at the Glen Aubrey Fire Station at 2:00 PM.

Memorial Contributions:
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jean’s honor to the Broome County Fair Special Kids/Celebrating Abilities Program, P.O. Box 747, Whitney Point, NY 13862, to continue her legacy of supporting those with special needs.

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