RUFFOLO, Gioacchino (Jack) was born June 20, 1937 in Marano Marchesato, Cosenza, Italy. He passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on September 2, 2011 after a brave battle with cancer.
Jack was predeceased by his parents, Salvatore and Filomena Ruffolo, and sister Antonietta. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Raffaela, sons Salvatore (Salina), Dino (Lisa), Vince (Patti), daughter Liana (David Iluk) and grandchildren Talia, Lorenzo, Sophia, Matteo and Adriana. He is also survived by sister Carmella, brothers Frank (Anna Maria), Mario and Angelo, many nieces and nephews and relatives in Italy.
Jack immigrated to Canada in 1963. He began work as a cement finisher, then worked as a boilermaker at the Victoria Shipyards. He retired in 1997 after an extensive career as an elevator mechanic with Montgomery/Kone Elevators. He was a long-standing community member of the Leonardo Da Vinci Centre. After Jack retired he continued to enjoy gardening his prized tomatoes, savouring his own vino, watching his favourite hockey and sports teams with his family, and inflicting his playful sense of humour on his grandchildren.
Jack was proud and self-taught, and passionately provided for his family. He will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by a multitude of family and friends.
A Mass to celebrate Jack’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 8, 2011 at ST. JOSEPH THE WORKER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 785 Burnside West, Victoria, BC. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Greater Victoria Cancer Society (101-1537 Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 4Y2).
The family wishes to thank the VGH care team for their kind attention in Jack’s last days. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
15 Responses
We are all very sad to hear about Jack. We will cherish our visits with him and hold them close to our heart. Keegan will always remember sitting with Jack and enjoying his humour. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
Ann, Scott, Keegan & Sarah Matheson
“Love is stronger than death.”
We’re so very sorry for your loss…we know how close a family you are, and hope you find comfort right now in the strong love and ties you share.
It was with sadness that we learned of the death of Jack, your husband and father. We always enjoyed our visits with him in the office as he was always so upbeat and friendly. The tomato plants he shared were the best.
We extend our best wishes to the family during this difficult time.
Dr. Byron and Viola Heal
I am so sorry to hear of Jack’s passing he will really be missed at the Tillicum mall. he was always smiling and full of fun always teasing someone He would come up behind me and pull my hair and I would always say Hi Jack without even looking to see who it was. My condolences to all the family. And may God comfort you in your grief. R.I.P.Jack Erma
So sorry to hear of your loss, Jack was a great neighbour and friend.
So sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. We will miss seeing his friendly face around Tillicum Mall. He was so approachable and eager for a friendly handshake. Our condolences to the family. Marion & Gordie
Sincere condolences on the loss of your Patriarch. My prayers are for his family and may they find solice in their memories.
I was happy to be a kid that had his ears attacked by Zio Jack. I remember crying at times when he got me, but I also remember going back for more.
Some great laughs with Zio Yuck, and I am a better person for knowing him.
Hugs to all the familia.
Vince Greco
Sorry to hear of your loss…Jack leaves wonderful memories to myself and Summer..we were blessed with his humour and his charasmatic personality….our thoughts and prayers with you and your family during this difficult time
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~From a headstone in Ireland
We are saddened to hear the news of Jack’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. Jack was such an amazing host to us when we visited last year. His smiling, vibrant personality and his love for his granddaughter will remain in our memory forever.
Cal and Laurel McCarthy (Kelowna)