Linda M. Rutkowski, aged 70, of Wilkes-Barre, entered her eternal life on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. She was under the care of Geisinger Wyoming Valley in Plains Township, surrounded lovingly by her family as she departed for heaven.

Linda was born in Wilkes-Barre on March 29, 1956, and was one of six children of the late Frank Patts and Catherine Picketts. She spent her childhood in Hudson and the Miners-Mills area, attending local elementary schools and graduating from Plains Memorial High School.

Linda began her working life at Carter Footwear and later was employed in housekeeping services by John Heinz and Allied Services. Due to a medical illness, she retired in 1995.

Linda was a devoted mother to her three children: James Jr., Andrew, and Michele. She found great joy in gardening, visiting local casinos, and taking short trips to Atlantic City resorts.

The loss of both her sons was an unimaginable tragedy for the family, yet Linda remained resilient. She stayed close to her loved ones, cherishing the time spent with them, especially her sister Elizabeth (Betty Ann), whom she dearly loved. Her daughter and grandchildren gave her the strength to continue, and she felt blessed by their presence in her life. Linda's passing leaves a deep void, but her family finds comfort knowing she is reunited with loved ones in heaven.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Catherine; her sons, James Jr. Burden and Andrew Burden ; her husband, Joseph J. Rutkowski Jr.; her sisters, Janet Pambianco and Rose Mary Swaditch; and her brother, Albert Picketts.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Michele Burden Wood, and son-in-law, Coron Wood, of Larksville; her sisters, Elizabeth (Betty Ann) Novak of Plains, Elaine Sabach of Hudson; along with her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Yanaitis Funeral Home Inc., 55 Stark Street, Plains. A homegoing service will begin at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Demont Heath of the Apostolic Lighthouse United Pentecostal Church, Hanover Township.

Donations in lieu of flowers will be accepted at the funeral home to assist with funeral expenses.