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ANDREW RUFFO Obituary

Andrew Ruffo Was born on November 16, 1926, in Binghamton, NY, to Italian immigrants Salvatore and Marian Ruffo. At 17 he joined the Navy and fought in the Pacific theater during WWII. After the war, he returned to Binghamton and studied finance and accounting. He was transferred to Europe where he met the love of his life, Edith Senske. In 1960, he joined the Army and Air Force Exchange Service in Germany. During his 26 years with AAFES, Andy rose from accountant to General Manager of the Pacific Northwest Area Exchange Region. His career led him and his family around the world, including Saudi Arabia, Germany, Turkey, and England, before he retired in Lakewood, Washington. Andy was an avid golfer and tennis and handball player. He loved to travel and be with family and friends, particularly over the traditional Sunday pasta dinner. He was also a huge Frank Sinatra fan, and would wait to turn the car off if Sinatra was on the radio. Andy passed away peacefully on March 3, 2011, while enjoying the sun at a friend's house in California. He is survived by his wife Edith, his son Michael, and his daughter Susan and her husband Mark, as well as many, many family and friends. A memorial mass will be held at St. Leo's Catholic Church at 710 South 13th St., Tacoma, on the 15th of March, 2011 at 12:10 p.m. with a reception to follow. Donations in honor of Andy to St. Leo's Church Emergency Services (by check to the address above), or the charity of your choice, would be welcome.

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

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Mar. 9, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for ANDREW RUFFO

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Mike and Mimi Trementozzi

March 5, 2023

Edie-Mike and I send you love and hugs as we remember Andy's passisng this month. Many blessings for you and family from our Lord Jesus.

Myriam Trementozzi

March 4, 2019

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. In loving memory. Mimi and Mike

Karen & Dan Bradley

April 8, 2011

Aunt Edie, Susan, Michael, and Mark,
Our hearts go out to all of you at this time and in the days ahead. We will always cherish the memories of Uncle Andy's big smile, laughter, and of course his wonderful stories. He was always so much fun to be around. I hope you take comfort in knowing that now all of you have a special guardian angel watching over you. Uncle Andy will always live in our hearts and prayers. All our love to you.

April 4, 2011

Edie - Hal and I were so sorry to hear of Andy's passing. We send
our love, prayers and condolences to you, Susan and Mark.
Carol Bailey

March 26, 2011

Andy was a wonderful guy; fun loving with a zest for life. We enjoyed his visits to California and our time spend with Andy, Edie at Ed and Eva's. We wil miss Andy, his great sense of humor, his stories and his love of all things Italian.
Milt and Juliette Chandler (Vista, CA)

Jerry Johnston

March 20, 2011

Andy was truly "one of a kind". I first met Andy 35 years ago in England. He invited us to a party of his. He and Edy were so hospitable. I always enjoyed my conversations with Andy. He always made me laugh. He will truly be missed. Recently I was at a "get-together" with several AAFES retirees....we made a "special toast" to Andy. Heaven will not be the same with the addition of Andy :) Take care my friend, JerryJohnston

March 20, 2011

We are going to miss Andy! He loved life, loved his family, and found enjoyment with his friend. He was a good story teller and a better listener. The world will be just a little bit duller, a little less fun without him. Peg and I will miss him. John and Peg Mawhinney

Ed Goode

March 19, 2011

I became friends with Mike in high school, and I remember his father as a gentle and good-humored man who never seemed to mind that so many teenagers liked to crowd into his house. He patiently endured hours of guitar playing (how many times did he hear the intro to Metallica’s “One”?). And if you were lucky, he would tell tales about “Jimmy the Squirrel” and other seemingly mythic characters from his childhood in New York. It is hard to think of two parents—-not just Andy, but also Edie—-who were admired by so many kids who were not their own. In the wake of Andy’s death, I hope the Ruffo family will feel even a small part of the affection and warmth that they have inspired in so many of us.

With deepest condolences from Israel.

Wally and Pat Closner and family

March 16, 2011

Aunt Edie, Michael, Susan and Mark; please accept our deep condolences and prayers for Uncle Andy’s passing. We pray for comfort from our families, friends and Lord as we journey together in mourning. We ask the Lord grant you His light of love during this time of grief and lovingly accept Uncle Andy with outstretched arms; gently embracing Uncle Andy into His eternal kingdom. Amen.

Wally & Beverly Closner

March 16, 2011

March 16, 2011

Edie, Susan, Mike, and Mark,

Andy, thanks for the memories--fifty years of them! We're so grateful for all the laughs and serious moments we shared with you and Edie, Susan, Mike, and Mark. I'll always treasure our Sunday afternoon telephone conversations. We never seemed to solve much of anything, but we had a great amount of quality time spent with each other! Rest in peace, Andy, dear friend. Wally and Bev. Closner

Susan Badalucco

March 15, 2011

Aunt Edie, Susan, Michael and Mark,
I can't find the words to express how sorry I am that you are going thru this. Uncle Andy's sudden passing hurts all of us who knew him. I'm grateful to God for the memories; I'll always remember him as one of the happiest people alive (and why shouldn't he have been..he had you Aunt Edie). I truly believe he enjoyed life and made every moment count. He made people laugh with his stories and his smile made everyone around him smile. His love and kindness will never be forgotten.

March 15, 2011

Aunt Edie, Susan, Michael and Mark,

While we can't be with you at this time, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love you all. Bob, Mickey, Megan, Melissa and Matt

March 14, 2011

Dee and I send our condolences to you and family..we have fun memories while asigned to Ft. Huachuca. Our thoughts and prayer are with you...Robert Winston

Norm & Norma Merritt

March 14, 2011

Edie—it is with heavy hearts that we will not be able to attend Andy’s memorial service, but our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Visions of Andy’s smiles and joyous manners are forever etched in our memoirs.

We are especially grateful to have had Andy as a friend and we feel very fortunate to have shared many memorable occasions with you and Andy. You both were always most gracious hosts that made us very comfortable as you shared your home with us on numerous occasions.

We also have special and warm reminiscences of your visit to our farm in Pennsylvania. May your many affectionate memories of your long and loving relationship with Andy give you strength and endurance in the days and years ahead.

Best of friends forever: Norma and Norm Merritt

Aaron Pedersen

March 14, 2011

Andy Ruffo, you were a great man. Thank you for everything you have given to me and the rest of the world. Your legacy, your kindness and your family have been and will continue to be widely appreciated by many.

March 14, 2011

Edie, as you know Michael and I both met Andy in Wiesbaden in 1960 and forged a friendship that lasted 50 plus years. He was always fun to be around. We are glad that we were able to travel with you both and also to visit through the years. He was like family and he will be with us in memory always. Michael and Dolores Easley.

Shelley Woodson

March 14, 2011

Dear Aunt Edie, Susan, Mike and Mark,
Uncle Andy's fun loving spirit, BIG laugh and smile will be in our hearts for ever! Uncle Andy always made family gatherings memorable with his stories and jokes.
With love, Shelley Tucker John and Jenna

Kelsey and Chad Camp

March 13, 2011

Mike - we are so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Our thoughts our with the entire Ruffo family during this difficult time. We never had the opportunity to meet Andrew but know that his legacy lives on in his amazing children. We'll keep you in our thoughts. Love you!

Ron /Jean Peach

March 12, 2011

Edie, Jean and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Andy was a great boss who was always caring and helpful, both on and off the job. We will keep you in our prayers.

Tom and Cathy Palluconi

March 12, 2011

Cathy and I will never forget Andy's friendship and kindness while we lived in Tacoma. Simply put, he was a good man. Edie, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Judi Orr

March 12, 2011

Mrs. Ruffo and Susan, it's been a long time since I was Susan's teacher at Hudtloff, but I remember her dad as someone with a twinkle in his eye and a hearty laugh. Susan, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad's passing. Thinking about you and your mom at this sad time. Peaceful wishes for your whole family.

Mimi and Mike Trementozzi

March 12, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers have been with you ever since we heard about Andy's sudden passing and our last visit with you all in Vista. It was so good to be able to spend that time together.
Praying that Jesus will strengthen and comfort you, that His peace will be with you and that He will heal your broken hearts.
We love you much.

March 11, 2011

Though we have not had any contact with Andy since we moved from the northwest, we have never forgotten the enjoyable times we had with Andy and Edie. Andy was indeed a fine man. Our thoughts are with Edie.

Ockhee and Jack Bego

Linda Wright

March 11, 2011

I will always remember as a child the great excitement that would come with Uncle Andy coming home for a visit. That feeling never went away. He was loved by everyone especially his family. He will be missed but never forgotten and always thought of with the utmost love and respect.Aunt Edie, Susan, Mark and Michael, you are in my thoughts and prayers. You gave him such joy and happiness. I know that is a comfort to you.

Kenley and Sue Williams

March 10, 2011

We have never met Mr. Ruffo in person; however, we've learned so much about him and his family through our son, David. We have been told that the Ruffos have been a second family not only to him but also to Eugenia. When special holidays had to be spent away from home, the Ruffo home was always open. Mr. Ruffo was referred to by David as his second dad. Not only kind and considerate, but a man of integrity and full of wisdom. He will forever be remembered. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Ruffo for being such an inspiration. Your son, Mike, we have learned to admire and love. He will continue to follow the examples set before him. No doubt about it. May God's presence and peace be with each of you in the days ahead.

Joe & Terry Ficocello

March 10, 2011

Andy was a true gentleman with all of the Italian exceptions! He was a great boss, a good friend and a true professional. Rest in peace Andy, you lived a great life!

MaryAnn Senske

March 10, 2011

Uncle Andy you will be missed at all of the Senske family gatherings. You had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and loved. Auntie, Susan, Mark and Michael, I love you all and have you in my thoughts and prayers

Bill and Julie Mullaly

March 10, 2011

In Loving memory of such a beautiful person. We have been so blessed to have had you in our lives Uncle Andy. You brought so much Love and Laughter into our life that we will treasure it forever. Thank You for that! Aunt Edie, Michael, Susan and Mark may the Love of family and friends be with you through this time of sadness. May you rest in Peace Uncle Andy. We will Love you and Miss you always.

Tito and Mina Villanueva

March 10, 2011

We were all deeply sorry to hear of Mr. Andy Ruffo's death. He was a fine person and supportive boss. I enjoyed playing golf, fishing and hunting while assigned in Pacific Northwest Exchange. It's a great honor to be associated with a man like Andy. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this sad time. We want to express our heartfelt sympathy.

Pere Villanueva

March 10, 2011

Condolences

Mary McAlpine

March 10, 2011

Andy, let your light shine! Tim and I have you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. We have shared many wonderful celebrations. We will cherish our time together in California and your great stories. Love to Mike, Susan and Mark.
Mary

Aubrey Rembold

March 10, 2011

Andy lived life as it was meant to be lived. A gentleman always and a friend to all. Andy will be remembered with honor and respect. May he Rest in Peace. Sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Edie/Joe Oda

March 9, 2011

We are deeply sorry to hear about Andy's sudden passing our sympathy to you Edie and family. We will fondly remember all the fun times we shared in our retirement years as members of the Puget Sound Chapter of AREA where Andy always contributed freely with his witty stories. May he rest in peace in a better world.

Richard Sheff

March 9, 2011

Our prayers & thoughts are with you and your entire family. Andy was very special person...a great boss and true friend. I can recall numerous times Andy extended a helping hand...and made the my time in the Pacific Northwest truly pleasurable. We would travel from Tacoma to Spokane. I would drive and upon arrival Andy would announce "that was easy"...it was, 'cause Andy would "rest his eyes" the entire trip. And, the need for Italian Sausage with extra fennel...often a "hunt" in the Washington wilderness. It's the simple things that are remembered and make a difference. What an incredible guy...I loved him.

George Bolles

March 9, 2011

Never a dull moment when in the company of Andy. Enjoyed working with him.

March 9, 2011

March 09,2011
My thoughts and prayers are with all your family during this difficult time. Please accept our deepest sympathy.

Joe and Adele Lima

March 9, 2011

we are keeping you all in our thoughts
lots of love from new york

Jim Leach

March 9, 2011

My deepest sympathy to Andy's family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time

Uta and Marty Handel

March 9, 2011

It seems amazing that we've known each other for over 50 years. Many happy memories of our time in Wiesbaden, and thereafter. Edie, our prayers are with you and the family.

Don/Dollie Pontius

March 9, 2011

Our sympathy to you and the family. Andy was a very good employee and friend. Fun person to be around after the work day.

Pattie Frederick

March 9, 2011

Edie, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. may God comfort you during this time of great sorrow. Pattie Frederick (Rite Aid)

Mike Bixby

March 9, 2011

My deepest sympathy to the family. In all my years and travel, I never met Andy, but I felt like I knew him through all the stories I heard from his friends.. A legend of his making.

Hal Yates

March 9, 2011

Having known Andy for over 40 years, I have many great memories of our association. Rest in peace, mio buono amico! Hal Yates

March 9, 2011

Andy will be fondly remembered by us. He was a honest and straightforward individual. Edie and family have our deepest prayers for their grivence,
Harry & Ellen Marshall

Tim McAlpine

March 9, 2011

Very well done Edie. You know Mary and I have you in our thoughts and prayers. Our short time with you and Andy in California was beautiful. We will remember it always. We miss you and hope to see you soon. Love to Susan, Mike and Mark.

Tim

March 9, 2011

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Dorothy Witt

Bob Van Loan

March 9, 2011

Andy was one of the best bosses I ever had, and someone I remember fondly. He was a true "people person" who took care of the troops first. He will be missed.

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