Gerald Robert Ruffi

Gerald Robert Ruffi, age 80 of Warren, died Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Beaumont Hospital in Troy. He was born March 16, 1938 in Detroit, son of the late Guy and the late Lillian (nee: Davison) Ruffi.Gerald experienced a host of wonderful blessings and gifts throughout his 80 years, but perhaps none so special and dear as the day he met the beautiful Miss Kathleen Connelly. Perhaps it is speculative whether he knew on that day or not if she was "the one," but the story's been told and we know how it ended,…with these two lovebirds exchanging their wedding vows and spending the next 58 years of marriage by each others' side. They were blessed to welcome four beautiful children into the world, and into their lives,…and whom gifted them with eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.For most of his working years, Gerald was an integral part of the retail grocery business and spent large chunks of time at different stores gaining knowledge and experience as he worked his way towards the goal of management, a dream that was ultimately fulfilled. With over 40 years in the industry, Gerald accrued a wealth of information and insight into this workplace world of his which helped to thrust him onto his new position in management,…the position he held at the time of his retirement in 1996. Gerald & Kathleen spent a lifetime together sharing in the joys and pleasures of family, friends, and making warm & lasting memories to reflect upon,…especially in those golden years when the memories are so precious. One of these treasured memories, (just one of the benefits of retirement), was enjoyed in their role as Snowbird's. Yes, they were just two of the throngs of Michigander's that ventured south for the winter, exchanging the cold of the Mitten for the warmth of the Panhandle. Nestled along the northern shore of Lake Monroe in the middle of the state, it offered the perfect blend of scenic beauty and comfortable temperatures,…and a great way to reap the harvest of earning such a wonderful treat. As for some of Gerald's personal pleasures, some were centered around his sporting tastes,…the first of which was definitely the game of golf. Nothing says fun quite like a sunny day on the links, swingin' those clubs in search of that elusive Hole-in-One, especially when sharing the fun with others. Gerald loved the game of golf and spent countless hours honing his swing and perfecting the art of the putt. He was also known for his love of everything & anything "Spartan" related, and truly enjoyed all of the sporting memories he amassed over the years through his Green & White spirit. For an entirely different scope of enjoyment, Gerald loved getting back to nature which came quite easy right in his own backyard as he nurtured and cared for the growth in his coveted garden. Possessing an impressive green thumb and the skills of a farmer, Gerald knew how to till the soil with just the right TLC that resulted in a garden rife with life and a thing of splendor for all to share. Yet if we are equating Gerald with a sense of nurturing, then we must share some props when it comes to family,…especially in the love and care he poured out towards the greatest growth in his "Garden of Grandchildren & Great-Grandchildren." They were the flame to his candle, the light to his world, and he would light up like a Christmas tree each time he spent in their presence. They were truly a blessing from above to Grandpa.A loving husband, father and grandfather, Gerald leaves a legacy of love that is sure to be embraced with each reflection of him shared. He touched a multitude of hearts and souls as he journeyed through this life. May he now enjoy the company of those who have gone before as he awaits the reunion of his loved ones,…one by one. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.Gerald was the beloved husband of Kathleen for 58 beautiful years. Dearest father of Ronald (Lynette) Ruffi, Dawn (Robert) McNeilly, Suzanne (Gerald) Schueler, and Daniel Ruffi. Loving grandfather of Gerald, Brian, Kathleen, Jake, Adam, Holly, Samantha, Tyler, and great-grandfather of Brandon, Nathan, Gino, Lily, and Camilla. Brother of Richard (Betty) Ruffi, Joanne, and Pat (John).Visitation for Gerald will be held Friday, January 4th from 3-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd.) in Warren. He will lie in state on Saturday, January 5th from 10:30 am until time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 am at First United Methodist Church, 5005 Chicago Road in Warren. Please share memories of Gerald at his guest book above.