Maria Rubonis passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100. Born Maria Brunner in the quaint village of Ganna, Hungary, on September 3, 1924, she lived a life marked by resilience, courage and a deep love for her family and heritage.

The turbulent years of World War II dramatically altered Maria's life trajectory. After surviving the war and its aftermath, she was displaced with her family to Germany. She soon made the decision to emigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a brighter future. Maria arrived in America in the early 1950s, embracing her new home while carrying the rich traditions and memories of her homeland in her heart.

Maria settled in New Jersey, where she built a life filled with purpose and dedication. She worked tirelessly at various factory jobs and as a dietary aide in a nursing home, a testament to her strong work ethic and determination. Upon the birth of her grandson, Maria moved to upstate New York. More than anything, she cherished her family, creating a warm and welcoming home that was the heart of every gathering. She instilled in her family a deep appreciation for her European roots, sharing stories, cooking traditional meals and ensuring that her cultural heritage thrived in her new homeland. She found great joy in gardening, cooking and baking. Her home-cooked chicken soup and traditional German-Hungarian Christmas cookies were a family favorite.

Outside the home, she enjoyed volunteering at her local church where she found community and solace in her faith. In particular, she worked within the Bereavement Ministry, helping those who grieve as they dealt with the passing of their own loved ones. Her kindness touched the lives of all who knew her and she will be remembered for her unwavering spirit and generous heart.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony, her brother Joseph and her sisters Elizabeth and Anna. She is survived by her loving son Anthony, her daughter-in-law Leslie, her cherished grandson Jonathan and her sister, Teresa.

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Maria's long and meaningful life will be held at St. Kateri Church, 1803 Union Street, Schenectady, NY, on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM. A calling hour will be held Saturday 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the church, preceding the mass. Interment to follow in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna, NY. The family kindly requests, that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to either St. Kateri School or to St. Kateri Parish.

Maria's journey as a young girl in a small Hungarian village, to a cherished matriarch in America is an inspiration to us all. Her legacy, resilience, love and cultural pride will continue to live on in the hearts of those whom she touched.