BORN

1942

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Valley Funeral Home

2121 West Burbank Blvd

Burbank, California

Joseph Ruffino Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 17, 2018.

Joseph Ruffino passed away Tuesday, January 16 of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Joseph was born February 8, 1942 in Buffalo, New York. He came to California with his family when he was ten years old and attended Lincoln Elementary, Jordan Junior High, and Burroughs High School (class of '59).

For most of his life, Joe resided in Burbank, a town he deeply loved. He worked at Playboy Records in the 1970s, traveling the country in service of the rock n roll music he so profoundly enjoyed. He began a career in real estate in the heyday '70s, and together with his wife, Jeri, built a legacy business of property acquisition and management around Burbank. Joe and Jeri ran a "mom and pop" business where they had a personal connection to their many tenants, and cared for their buildings with a thoughtful touch.

Known as "Balata" to his many friends at Lakeside Golf Club, Joe was a member there for 30 years, and hosted both of his daughters' weddings on the grounds, as well as too many boisterous family dinners to mention.

He was known for his eternally optimistic outlook, and his inimitable zest for life, having survived polycystic kidney failure with a transplant from Jeri in 1988 and, later, a double-organ transplant which gratefully extended his life these last 9 precious years. Joe's quality of life was untouchable, and among the many things he loved to do with his time, his family was at the top of his list. He loved family dinners with the 9 of us, great food, the never-ending quest for the perfect golf swing, going on cruises, a good Dodgers or Rams game, attending Catholic church service with gratitude every Saturday evening, breakfasts at Tally Rand, serenating his family with rock n roll on his guitar, "date nights" with his daughters, chatting up strangers, watching classic movies, playing music at top volume, indulging his granddaughter's burgeoning love of movies, time spent feeding the birds in Big Bear, and playing the harmonica for his youngest grandbabies.

Joseph is survived by his beautiful bride of 50 years, Jeri Lynn; two loving daughters, Elisa and Gina, and their husbands Thomas and Vince; and his three precious grandchildren, Lena Rose (3 years), Lucas Maxwell (1 year) and Celia Lynne (7 months).

The world lost a special soul, a devoted husband, a loving papa and father-in-law, and the best dad his daughters could have asked for. He was our best friend and he will be eternally missed.

In keeping with his wishes, the private gathering following the church service will be strictly immediate family only. However, we would like to open the church service to anyone who would like to attend, and we receive your condolences with much gratitude and love.

A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, January 27 at noon at Saint Charles Borromeo
Lankershim & Moorpark, North Hollywood, CA.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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February 24, 2018

Gary Storti

Uncle Joe-
As the weeks have gone by, your presence is greatly missed and I feel it every day. Your celebration of life with just our family was incredibly healing and special. It warmed the heart in the just the right places. Please know that you had an incredible impact on me growing up and I have nothing but fond memories from riding on your Honda motorcycle, playing in your camper, trying to get past the "Private" sign on your bedroom door at the Catalina house and all of the endless nights with the entire family sitting around listening to you play your famous guitar. What special memories these are for each of us and we are all very grateful to have had you in each of our lives...We will all miss you and I'm sending you all of my love until we meet again.
Gary "Gabrruutts"

February 23, 2018

I had known Joel for almost 60 years. Knowing him has brought me happiness and joy from the moment we meet. He meant so much to his every friend and relative. He will be so missed and never forgotten. Rest In Peace my dear friend.......
Genie Hoedinghaus Tafoya

January 29, 2018

Bud Henke

Uncle Joe and Family,
As a non-Italian in our family I am grateful that you had inducted me into this family one evening at Genios restaraunt on my first date with your GodDaughter, my wife Lori. After a pinch of the cheek and slap of the face I realized my commitment to this family meant everything. While enjoying our journey in marriage I recognized you as a positive vibes sentinel making sure we made the best of our vows. I realize now how fortunate your place was in our succeeding as a couple. We shared some especially cool times together and your inspiration for joy and singing is embedded in my spirit deeply. I am forever grateful for the enthusiastic qualities you brought out in others as you remembered what was important to every person you encountered. I hope to carry on some of the kind attributes you preciously demonstrated as my Uncle and friend in ways that would make you proud. I am forever blessed to have shared a little time with a great man,
One Love

January 29, 2018

Steve and Sharon Ruffino

Dear Bro,

Wow, what a guy! We are filled will love, respect and admiration for you and the amazing life you've created. You made it to the 18th hole as a big winner! We always looked forward to our phone chats about life, family, movies and baseball! Thank you for being such a big part of our boys life as they were growing up. They have such priceless memories.

We will miss you terribly. Love, Steve and Sharon

January 27, 2018

Gary and Rochelle Cavaretta

Dear Cousin Joel, We will miss you dearly. You have always been a joy to our family in so many ways.You are such a bright star, with your love of life always showing through in your smile and demeanor. We have truly lost a wonderful, loving cousin and sincere gentleman. We will hold our time with you in our hearts and keep you in our prayers always.
Rest in peace with God, all our love, Cousin Gary, Rochelle, Gary Joseph and Alexa.

January 27, 2018

Patrick Ruffino

Dear Uncle Joe,

I'm so proud and grateful to call you Uncle. Reflecting on the early years of my life, I realize, for me, that you were a kind of magic man. Always doing something new and exciting, drinking up life and savoring every drop. You were so talented, so generous, so fun and alive. Magic. Thanks for helping shape me into the person I am today. As the years have passed, with all of your courageous health battles and with me on the east coast , our recent moments together have been very precious. It made my heart sing when I saw your face light up every time you would see me. Thanks for that. I will always honor your rich legacy of Love, Integrity and Prima Famiglia - for all the days of my life.
Aunt Jeri, Elisa and Gina, my heart is with you. I love you so much and I hope I can be at least a small source of comfort to you. The stars shine brighter with uncle Joe in the heavens.

With love, respect and gratitude, xo -Patrick

January 27, 2018

Jim Shanklin

Dear Jeri and all of Joe's family,
I am so so sorry. This is heartbreaking news.
From the moment I met Joe I felt I was meeting a friend. As we both discovered, we went to the same church and realized as a Sacristan at St. Charles I had served Joe communion. We both have a love for the game of golf and even shared a few acquaintances. I will miss looking for Joe at mass at St. Finbar and St. Charles and will I remember fondly our conversations after.
Please know that Joe will be in my prayers as will all of you. May God bless you and keep you all together within His loving and compassionate arms.
My most sincere condolences to you all,
Jim Shanklin

January 27, 2018

Ciara D'Anella

Joe,

When I decided to look for a place to call home in California, I felt instant assurance that I would be in good hands as one of your tenants. It was quite apparent that you were a kind, lighthearted man, with that old Hollywood charm and great love for your family. I'm happy to have known you, and greatful you had taken great care in maintaining all of our homes here on Lamer street.

Love to the Ruffino family,

Ciara

January 25, 2018

Tony Ruffino

To my Dear Uncle Joe,
I sometimes have a hard time to say the right words about someone. But not when it comes to you. You were not only a wonderful uncle, a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. You were always someone who would me laugh especially when you would say, Tony, you're going to look just like me.
I know you're playing your guitar and singing as Gram is making her delicious pizza and my dad is pouring everyone a glass of wine. You will definitely be missed.
Love you, Tony

January 25, 2018

Bunny Ruffino

It seems I've known you all my life; the brother I never had.
And now, my brother you are gone, it makes me very sad.
We had so many great times that I shall never forget.
You will ALWAYS be deep in my heart, I'm so blessed that we met.

Love,
Bunny

January 25, 2018

Mike Ruffino

1-25-18

My heart is heavy. I've lost my Godfather!
What a man! An exceptional husband, father, brother and son. Not to mention, a way way above average Uncle, mentor and friend.
My peace is knowing he's arm in arm with his mother (Vita,doll face) and his brother (Tom, Uncle T-hom).
I know in time, I too will get the honor in being part of that group. Until then I will promise to keep you alive in my heart!
I love you Uncle Joe❤

January 25, 2018

Michelle Ruffino Sellers

To My Wonderful Uncle Joe,

My heart is so full of sadness that you are no longer with us (I think I'm still in shock). You were always a bright light at our gatherings and your funny wit and charm will truly be missed.

We love you, Uncle Joe!!!

January 24, 2018

Grateful Tenant

My wife and I lived in one of Joe and Jeri's apartments back in the 90's when we first got married. I never forgot their generosity, kindness and example. God bless you all. Rest in peace, Joe.

January 22, 2018

Donna Rea

When it comes to cousins, I think of you as one of my favorites. Our Mom's taught us how to love unconditionally and you lived that through your life. I'll never forget our times together with the Aunties. The stories and the laughs. Your contagious smile. I'm so happy that my daughters got to spend some precious time with you in Big Bear. My deepest condolences to Jeri and your beautiful daughters and their families. God has gained another angel. Give my husband a big hug from me and keep playing your music! Love you!

January 22, 2018

Just sent a remembrance of Joe in the last hour but just realized I never signed it. I am the friend of 30 yrs who was so lucky to have that time with Joe. Damn! He brought a lot of joy! Josh Taylor

January 22, 2018

I am so proud and privileged to have been a very good friend of his for 30 yrs.Joe was such a shining light.He just made things better even if it was just talking with him on the phone I always told him what a tough man he was.Despite his many health problems over the years he never complained. Just joked and smiled.His friendship added so much to my life and I will so miss him.But just the thought of Joe will always bring a big smile to my face.

January 22, 2018

We will miss you Joel. Your trips back to Buffalo were always times of celebration. The gatherings with Grandma Gullo, your Mom, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins of both the Gullo and Ruffino families brought out the best of Italian foods, fresh clams and of course the reminiscing of the past. Joel, as every one knew you were always the Life of the Party whether singing along with your guitar or telling us the stories we enjoyed hearing. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Jeri your bride of 50 years, Elisa and Gina your devoted Daughters, and of course Carol and Steve the Sister and Brother you meant so much to.
Your Cousins in Buffalo miss you.
Love,
Carm, Rene and Family

January 22, 2018

Christopher Rizzotti

Joe was always so fun to be around and he had so many great stories. We are going to miss him. Very sorry for your loss

January 20, 2018

My prayers go out to Jeri and the girls. Joe was a very special man....truly a fine example of what a family man should be! What an infectious smile, a fabulous sense of humor, and wonderful singing voice! His friendship was one I will always treasure. Rest in Peace Joe.
Jonna Baker Mix

January 20, 2018

susan andriuzzo

Im so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. What a truly beautiful man he was. He always made you feel that you were special but thinking back he was a truly special soul on this earth. He will be missed by all.

January 20, 2018

Dear Cousin Joe, I'm so saddened on learning of your sudden passing. A true family man with a heart of gold. You shared so much of yourself with your family and friends. Yesterday when I started my car, the radio went on and Ray Charles was singing "I Got a Woman". Thank you for that visit. I will always remember the happy times we all shared. All my love,
Marlene Ruffino Campagna, West Seneca, NY

January 20, 2018

I'm so sorry for the loss of Mr. Ruffino. I hope family and friends can find comfort in reading the words at Matthew 5:4 in this time of sorrow.

January 19, 2018

Joe I'll miss our weekly phone calls but mostly I'll miss you. I was devastated when I heard the news. I've been thinking about everyday since. You're with the
Lord now and in peace. Love you Wayne

January 19, 2018

Charlotte Scovill

Who knew that over the last ten years we would become such friends. All of the conversations about art, travel, movies, and costumes. Always positive and happy with great life advice! You will be missed terribly. You made me never want to leave this beautiful place of Burbank! Sending love

January 19, 2018

Scott Bartlett

A beautiful man . I so much enjoyed your company and friendship. May Peace be with you and your family
Gods Blessings
Scott & Jan Bartlett

January 19, 2018

Michael & Dyanne CAGGIANO

Oh! Jeri, Gina, Elisa...how we love Joe, his spirit and joy of life. Dyanne and I pray for your peace of mind, knowing that Joe is all around us forever more.

January 19, 2018

Mike Catena

I lost my buddy Joe Ruffino. After kidney, liver transplants, cancer. You name it, he got it. He never felt sorry for himself. He was my mentor, my father figure, and taught me more about life than anyone. I met him at Playboy records, he worked with my Dad, when I was 16, and from then on I was family. He was an amazing father, husband, and simply the person that could always make you laugh. He was my friend. A real friend. The kind that, even if you didn't talk for a long time, you could pick up right where you left off. He never judged you. He was simply always proud of me. I will miss him more than I can imagine. My golfing buddy. Love you Joe. Thank you for being a part of my life.

January 19, 2018

Carol Storti

To My Dear and Special Brother,
Jack and I are still so numb at losing such a wonderful brother. We truly are going to miss our almost daily telephone conversations. We are so happy that our last time together on Christmas Eve at Lori & Bud's house you were feeling so great and enjoyed being with our family.
I remember our teenage years when you taught me how to dance and I learned through your guidance of dance steps how to flip over your back.
Joel you've been a good brother, a great husband and a fantastic dad & grandfather. You are going to be sorely missed.
Rest in Peace and We Love You.....Carol & Jack

January 19, 2018

Lori Henke

Dear Uncle Joe, My Godfather. I am so thankful that we had the most amazing time together at Our New House this past Christmas Eve. You loving my Homemade Pizza and how you kept telling me that you wanted more. I think you were on your 6th Piece when I took a picture of you. You also were so excited about our New Home. Mom said you talked to her about it for days after! Then we had our One and One talk about Life and how Blessed we both Were. I have 51 years of amazing memories with you, Thank you for always being that Positive Role Model. I still have a bunch of Messages you have left on my Voice Mail that I will cherish forever. I sure am going to Miss you, and I will always be your "Baducci" (sp) your nick name you gave me :-) I Love you My Godfather/Uncle Joe R.I.P

January 19, 2018

Peter Barsocchini

Just a wonderful man...warm, funny, real. Always spoke so lovingly of his family. I will miss him.

From a friend at Lakeside Golf Club, Peter Barsocchini

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Jan

27

Service

12:00 p.m.

Saint Charles Borromeo Lankershim & Moorpark

North Hollywood, CA

Funeral services provided by:

Valley Funeral Home

2121 West Burbank Blvd, Burbank, CA 91506

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