Pierino “Pete” Ruffolo, 76 years old of Kenosha, WI passed away Monday, August 9, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Pierino was born February 17, 1945, in Marano Marchesato, Province of Cosenza, Italy, the son of the late Luigi and Carmela (Bilotti) Ruffolo. On August 9, 1969, he emigrated to the United States, and on August 14, 1971, he married Rose Covelli in Chicago, IL. They settled in Kenosha, WI and he began working for American Motors Corporation, in several capacities over his 38-year career.
Pete enjoyed farming, especially planting and caring for his tomatoes. He loved sharing his Italian heritage by “bringing Italy” to friends and neighbors, whether it was his homemade salami, cheeses, wine, etc. He was also an avid hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed playing cards. He cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Rose; his daughter, Susanna (Ryan) Miller of Kenosha, WI; siblings, Maria (Mario) Dattilo, Santina Lori, and sister-in-law, Julia (Joe) Liotine; grandchildren, Baggio and Giada Miller; nieces and nephews, Frankie, Lisa, Joey, Lisa, Rosemarie and Luigi; and many other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Pierino was preceded in death by children, Kelly Francesco and Gina Marie Ruffolo; an infant sister, Rosina Ruffolo; brothers, Francesco and Achille Ruffolo; brother-in-law Tony Lori; and a nephew, Paul Liotine.
The Ruffolo family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice Alliance, especially Kilea and Brenda, as well as Drs. Leo Montemurro and David Knight.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 12, 2021, at Proko Funeral Home. Prayers will be held at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, August 13, 2021, at the funeral home with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Pompeii Catholic Church, 2224 45th St., Kenosha, WI. Interment will follow in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha, WI.
