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 so sorry to hear of your lose. Gioacchino was a wonderful person, always friendly and happy to see us whenever we met.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Anna, Tony Porco and family
So sorry for your loss. I know the pain of losing a parent & friend to cancer & the pain and emptiness that is left behind. The relief comes from knowing that they are no longer in pain & with God now watching down on us & keeping us safe. I have many fond memories of Jack & his family, especially our Christmas visits we would spend together drinking wine & laughing. Love Jean Fischer
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your , husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was a delightful host and his wine was exceptional!!
He is in God’s memory now and we are sure he leaves many lovely memories to live in your hearts as well.
Love, Ken and Vivian
To the entire Ruffolo family – my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Giocchino – thoughts and prayers go out to you all. May all the wonderful memories you each shared with him give you strength at this most difficult time.
Concetta Peluso
To all the Ruffolo family, Jim & I just want you to know our thoughts are with you all at this very difficult time. Our condolences to you all From Jim & Sharon Pine