Natale "Nate" Ruffolo

Natale "Nate" Robert Ruffolo passed away in his Elmhurst home on Friday, April 18, 2014 after a 4 year battle with cancer. Born August 20, 1942 to Frank and Jennie (Fasanella). Dearest husband of 50 years to Millie (nee Antczak); loving father of Lynn (John) Hickey, Joanne (Dan) Novarro-Hurt, David (Teresa), Elaine (Mark) Czech, Natalie (Louie) Amabile. Adored "Papa" to Nicolette, Stephanie, Cailin, Collin, Ally, Emma, Andrew, David, Ava, William, Johnny, Sarah, Lily, Kelly, Kyle, Kim, Ryan, Danielle, Jack and Ozma. Dear brother of Gloria (Charles) Vykruta, Raymond (Lynne), son-in-law of Helen Antczak, brother-in-law of Fran (Paul) Kaminski, Tom (Kathy) Antczak, Mary (Bob) Scarlett and fond uncle to many nieces and nephews. Nate worked at Western-Southern Life Insurance for over 30 years. Before retiring earned many awards for his success as a District Sales Manager. Owner of Cherrywood Tap for 35 years. In retirement he was a passionate race-horse owner and board member of the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association. Founding member of Galloping Out, a program that provides funding for the rescue, care, rehabilitation, and retraining of off the track thoroughbreds. Nate's family is so grateful and deeply touched by the show of love and support they have received throughout this difficult time from family and friends. Nate loved life and will be deeply missed by those who loved him. Funeral Mass Tuesday 9:45 a.m. from Russo Hillside Chapels, 4500 Roosevelt Rd. (in between Mannheim and Wolf Road) to Visitation Church, 779 S. York St. Elmhurst, Il. 60126. Mass 10:45.m. Entombment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Crucifixion Garden Mausoleum. Visitation Monday, April 21, 2014 from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. For additional info (708) 449-5300. Please visit Nate's personal tribute website at www.russohillsidechapels.com and sign his guestbook. In lieu of flowers, donations to Elmhurst Memorial Hospice c/o Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation 155 E. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst, Il 60126, Visitation Church 779 S. York St., Elmhurst, Il 60126 or Galloping Out 7301 W. 25th St. Suite 321, North Riverside, Il. 60546 in Nate's name would be appreciated.