Mr. Rufus T. "Ruffy" Ventura

Mr. Rufus T. “Ruffy” Ventura, age 84, passed away on Sunday evening, April 14, 2013 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and comfort of his entire family by his side. Born in Utica on March 5, 1929, Rufus was the son of the late Ercole and Mary (Statti) Ventura. Raised and educated locally, he attended T.R. Proctor High School. On March 9, 1946 he married the former Lucille Robertello with whom he shared 67 years as true lifetime companions. Ruffy worked at his profession as a Mechanical Engineering Draftsman and Tool Designer. For years he had been employed by Utica Drop Forge later known as Kelsey Hayes, and his career concluded as a design specialist at UNIVAC Corp. Ruffy was proud to have been part of the Greatest Generation and grateful to have endured the rigors of the Great Depression and the tragedy of World War II. He always maintained a high moral code and a conservative nature. Ruffy was a fine example of an honorable man and a good father and role model to his family. His personal spirituality sustained him in life. He enjoyed the sport of golf, especially with his loved ones. A form of entertainment and pastime for he and his wife was going to Vernon Downs Race Track and Resort, and the Turning Stone Casino. Ruffy was affectionately known and referred to as the "family meteorologist." Ruffy is survived by his wife, Lucille; his son and daughter-in-law, Lawrence “Larry” and Sharon A. Ventura of Utica, his daughter, Diane Ventura of FL, and his son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Linda Ventura of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Richard L. and Jennifer Ventura, Andrea and William Hollister, Lisa and David Miranda; Christy and Grant Gasstrom; and Stephen Ventura; and his great-grandchildren, Anthony, Dominick, and Marsella; Alexis, and Karleigh; Dylan, Davin, and Dalton; and Brad, and Logan. Also left to remember his legacy are his sisters and brothers-in-law, Jean Marie and Ken “Red” Elliott, and Marie and John Scialdone; his brothers and sister-in-law, Sam Ventura and companion Toni, and Louis and Jeanette Ventura; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws Diane Ventura, and Eleanor and Samuel Bianco; and longtime and traveling friends Raye and Joseph Nesci. He was predeceased by his brother, John Ventura; and his in-laws, Joseph and Lena Robertello. The family wishes to thank all the physicians and health care providers who have assisted during Ruffy’s time of need. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Ruffy’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Interment will take place graveside in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Rufus T. "Ruffy" Ventura

March 5, 1929 - April 14, 2013