Mario R Brunetta Jr

Obituary of Mario R Brunetta Jr

Former Vineland Police Chief, Air Force Veteran, Avid Sailor, and Devoted Family Man

Mario Ronald Brunetta, Jr., a lifelong resident of Vineland, New Jersey, former Chief of Police, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully in the early hours of March 28, 2026.

Born and raised in Vineland, Mr. Brunetta lived a life defined by service, discipline, and unwavering commitment to both country and community. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he developed the foundation of duty and integrity that would guide his life's work.

Following his military service, he joined the Vineland Police Department, beginning a distinguished law enforcement career that spanned decades. Over the course of his service, he held a number of critical roles, including detective, and positions that demanded sound judgment, discretion, and an unyielding commitment to truth. He further advanced his professional development, graduating from Polygraph School and the FBI National Academy, reflecting both his expertise and the trust placed in him as a law enforcement professional.

Mr. Brunetta steadily rose through the ranks of the department, serving as Captain and later as Acting Chief, before ultimately being appointed Chief of Police. His leadership placed him at the center of decisions that shaped public safety in Vineland, and he became known for a leadership style grounded in fairness, accountability, and steady resolve.

Outside of his professional life, Mr. Brunetta found both joy and freedom on the water. He was an avid sailor, spending countless hours navigating and enjoying time at sea. Sailing was more than a pastime-it was a passion. He competed in sailing events and was a proud member of the Greenwich Yacht Club, where he built lasting friendships and embraced the camaraderie of the sailing community.

Above all, Mr. Brunetta was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved spouse, Donna Longo; and his four sons: Mario (Carlos), Gregory (Kelly), Timothy (Meredith), and Christopher. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Connor, Olivia, Bryce, Katie, Reagan, Jackson, Parker, and Cora, who carry forward his legacy into the generations to come.

He was predeceased by his wife, M. Jacqueline Brunetta (1999); parents, Mario and Evelyn Brunetta; his brother, Richard Brunetta; and his sister, Linda Smaniotto.

He will be remembered for his keen insight into human nature, which he shared freely, and his deep devotion to his Catholic faith.

Mr. Brunetta's life was one of quiet strength, public responsibility, and enduring impact. From his service in the Air Force to his leadership within the Vineland Police Department-and in the quiet moments spent on the water-he lived with purpose, discipline, and integrity."

A church visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 12pm to 2pm followed by a funeral mass at 2:00 pm from Our Lady Of The Blessed Sacrament - Church Of St. Michael, 504 West Avenue, Minotola. Entombment will follow in St Mary's Cemetery, Vineland.

Donations in memory of Mario may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Our Lady Of The Blessed Sacrament Parish, 104 Catawba Avenue, Newfield, NJ 08344

ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360

To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com