Anna G. Brunetti, Mother of Hialeah's John Brunetti, Dead

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Anna G. Brunetti, whose son John owns Hialeah and Red Oak Farm near Ocala, Fla., died March 5 in Miami after a brief illness. Widow of real estate magnate Joseph Brunetti, she was 88.

The Brunettis developed a love of racing in the 1950s and campaigned major winners Staunchness and Vertex. The former won the 1965 Dwyer Handicap over that year's Belmont Stakes winner Hail to All, and defeated subsequent champion Bold Bidder in winning the Whitney Handicap the following year. Vertex, owned by partnership, was one of the top handicap stars of 1959.

In the 1960s, the Brunettis built Red Oak and established a breeding operation. Away from the farm, Anna Brunetti served on the Hialeah board of directors. After the death of her husband in 1968. she established a family foundation that has contributed money to a number of charitable causes and organizations.

In addition to her son, Brunetti is survived by a daughter, Jo Ann, plus grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Donations may be made to the Brunetti Foundation, 1655 US Highway 9, Old Bridge, N.J. 08857, or to other religious or charitable organizations.

A funeral Mass will be held 10:00 a.m. March 11 at Holy Trinity Church, 34 Maple Ave., Hackensack, N.J.

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