Fannie Mutchko

Fannie (Rago) Mutchko, 101, of Waldwick, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026.

Born in Jamaica, Queens, New York, Fannie lived in Floral Park before moving to Waldwick 69 years ago, where she built a life centered on family, friendship, and community.

Fannie was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Mutchko Sr.; her parents, John and Grace (Guaragna) Rago; her dear sisters, Jean, Lilly, Angie, Dolores, and Annie; and her brothers, Joseph, Alfred, Louis, Elmer, and Frank. She is survived by her loving children, Diane Wanamaker, Darlene Mutchko, and John Mutchko Jr.; her cherished grandchildren, Tammy Hudak and her husband Ken, Brian Livesey, Joseph Bindhammer and his wife Melissa, John Mutchko III, Kaitlyn Mutchko, and Kristy Mutchko; her treasured great-grandchildren, Ryan Hudak and Thea Bindhammer; many beloved nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends whose lives she touched over the years.

Fannie’s greatest joy in life was her family, and she showed her love best in her kitchen. Her Sunday gravy and meatballs were legendary, and her zucchini bread, rice pilaf, and Easter frittata were family favorites that will continue to grace holiday tables for years to come.

She lived her life with energy, independence, and a wonderful sense of fun. From age 62 to 90, Fannie proudly tap-danced with the Happy Tappers, only retiring after her knee replacement — and even then, she didn’t slow down, taking up line dancing instead. She loved playing Bingo at the Senior Center, enjoyed lively games of Bunco, found pure delight in lottery scratch-offs, and loved going to the casino, always ready to try her luck and enjoy a day filled with excitement and laughter.

Fannie lived an extraordinary 101 years — a century marked by resilience, devotion, laughter, and love. She will be remembered for her strength, her vibrant spirit, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the traditions she created, and the countless friendships she formed throughout her long and beautiful life.

The family will receive friends on March 3rd from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Vander Platt Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff.

A Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10:00 AM at St. Luke's RC Church, 340 Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus.

Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 300 Soldier Hill Road, Township of Washington.

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