Vincent F. Ruffolo, 83, of Kenosha, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2013, at Hospice House surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Kenosha on May 16, 1930, the son of the late Gennaro N. and Mary Chiara (Gentile) Ruffolo. Vince was educated in the schools of Kenosha, graduating from Bradford High School. He attended St. Luke’s School of Nursing becoming a Registered Nurse and obtaining his Master’s Degree in Health Care Administration. He was employed by Nash Automotive. Later, Vincent served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was employed as the Vice President of Operations at American Medical Development Company until his retirement in 1986. Vincent was a Nash Automobile enthusiast, active with car shows and organizations. He was key is establishing the WisItalia program, which teaches Italian language and culture. He was also involved with the American Cancer Society, the Kenosha County Historical Society and the Western Kenosha County Historical Society. Surviving Vincent are his special friend and loving companion, Carol Capelle; his three children, Colette (Bruce) Kraeuter of Kenosha, Paulette Ruffolo-Marchand of Kenosha and Cassandra (Jim) Parise of Kenosha; six grandchildren, Heather Kraeuter, Rachel Kraeuter, Nicholas Kraeuter, Kelly Marchand, James Parise and Jennifer Parise; and one great-grandchild, Cole Neu. He is also survived by his loving Siamese Feline” Rhama”. A memorial gathering will be held for Vince at the Proko Funeral Home on Thursday, June 20th, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Hospice Alliance, Safe Harbor Humane Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Vincent’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Rina Pignone-DeBartolo
June 21, 2013
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Ruffolo. I think that I can speak on behalf of all involved in the Kenosha Italian Programs that we had a truly generous gentleman in our midst who will always be remembered forhis dedication to the growth of the language and culture that he adored. Personally, I am saddened for the loss of a wonderfully compassionate man who was a true philanthropist. He will be missed.
Gary Smith
June 20, 2013
My deepest Condolences & Sympathy to the Ruffolo family & Carol.I have know Vince since about 1973 when I first starting working for him while finishing school.That part time job turned into about a 14 year career during which time he came to be so much more than a boss to me. We shared many classes at Gateway together, always having something to do with cars, and many trips hunting car parts and AMC/Nash memorabilia. He would often call me at work an invite me shopping at Sears or out to lunch. He was especially proud of taking me to the lunches prepared at Gateway by Cassie while she attended school there. During that time we became close friends and I soon considered him like a father to me as I always felt he treated me like a son. He has made an everlasting impression on my life and a lasting wonderful book of memories to cherish.He will be forever in my thoughts and greatly missed.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Gary and Elda Zinman
June 19, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to for the loss of a great friend and inspired mentor. Vince's sense of humor and sage wisdom are just a few of the things that we loved about him and that smile on his face when you saw him made you know he was a true friend indeed.
Mary Durkee
June 19, 2013
To the family: Sorry for the passing of Vince. I worked with him and others on the car shows. I was his designated "driver" in on the golf cart so that he could see all the cars at the show. He was a kind person to me. He will be sadly missed.
Keith Behme
June 18, 2013
My deep condolences, you are in my prayers.
Bob Wirch
June 18, 2013
I am sorry that due to legislative session on the State budget, I will not be able to attend the service for Vince. I will miss Vince's calls to my office with suggestions for betterment of our community. He was always involved and interested and I appreciated hearing from him.
Jean (Ricchio) Thompson
June 18, 2013
Paulette, Colette and Cassandra. I am so sorry to hear of you dads passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Jean (Ricchio) Thompson
Eric O. Nelson Jr.
June 17, 2013
My deepest Condolences & Sympathy to the Ruffalo family, & Carol. Vince is now gone, however the Nash Car Club Members, the visitors to the Kenosha History Center will forever benefit from the fruits of his labors for them. You will be missed Vince.... Eric Nelson