Hon. Henry Gruffi

Henry Gruffi, Judge, Attorney and advocate for the mentally retarded, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013 with his family by his side. Henry was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth in 2002. He was a devoted father to his special daughter, Nancy, his daughter Patricia Hans (Philip) of Woodbridge, VA and his three sons, Robert (Denise), William (Ellen) and Douglas (Kimberly), all of New City. He was a loving grandfather to Matthew Hans (Sara), Colleen Donnelly (Scott), Joseph Hans (Beth), Robert (Kathleen), Elizabeth, Kathleen, Thomas, Brandon and Lauren. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Anna, Joshua and Emily Hans and Hayden Donnelly. He also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews.

Born in New York City to Almerina (Avanzini) and Paolo Gruffi, Judge Gruffi graduated from Fordham University and received his law degree from NY Law School. He was admitted to the NY Bar Association in 1962. He served his country proudly in the Navy during WWII as a Lieutenant. Judge Gruffi was a resident of New City and a member of St. Augustine's parish for over 50 years.

Judge Gruffi was acting Judge for the Village of Haverstraw until his retirement in 2012. He was a member of the NY State Magistrates Association. Judge Gruffi was a lifetime member of the Rockland ARC, serving as Board President and Board member until his death. An attorney in Rockland County for over 50 years Judge Gruffi had a private law practice, with the Cronin-Gruffi law firm in Suffern. He was also an attorney with the Department of Social Services.

Judge Gruffi was very dedicated to his family and instilled high moral values, a strong religious belief and the importance of education in his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed being with his children and grandchildren and spending time with them on LBI. He attended daily mass at St. Augustine's Church and enjoyed his friendship with fellow parishioners.

Family will receive visitors on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and from 7 to 9pm at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Service Inc. A funeral mass will take place on Wednesday at 10am at St. Augustine's Church. Burial will follow at St. Anthony's Church, Nanuet, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations in Henry's name may be made to the ARC of Rockland, 25 Hemlock Drive, Congers, NY 10920.