Dorothy “Dottie” Francis (Markovic) Ruffalo, 78, formerly of Kenosha, WI late of Hollister, California, went to be with the Lord, Sunday, September 14, 2008.
Born on April 17, 1930, in Chicago, IL, she was the daughter of John and Anne (Hruby) Markovic and the youngest of five children.
Prior to moving to Kenosha in 1961, Dorothy worked in Chicago’s fashion industry both in purchasing and modeling. She and her former husband, Carl C. Ruffalo, founded the Villa D’ Carlo Italian Restaurant in 1963.
Dorothy was a long time member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and volunteer at St. Catherine’s Hospital. Passionate about swimming, you could find her most mornings swimming and volunteering at the KYF. An avid golfer, she belonged to the Bristol Birdies and P.A. Women’s golf leagues for many years. Dorothy enjoyed gardening, cooking, music and theatre, and a great sense of humor. Later in life, Dorothy cherished time spent with her three granddaughters who brought her great joy.
Dorothy leaves two daughters, Carla (Ruffalo) Smith, of San Jose, CA and Lynda (Ruffalo) Whelchel of O’Neals, CA; three granddaughters, Allyson Moyes, Alexis Smith and Rachel Kirk; and sons-in-law, Mark Whelchel and Eric Kirk. Known to them as “Aunt Dot”, Dorothy also leaves many loving nieces and nephews and extended family.
Along with her parents and siblings; Rudy, Wally, Bill and Eleanor, Dorothy was preceded in death by son-in-law, Matthew Smith and grandson, Bret Smith.
A private family viewing will take place at Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Funeral Home in Hollister, CA on September 17, 2008 with internment at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, Santa Clara, CA. Remembrances may be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Dorothy’s family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Grageda and the entire staffs of Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital, Mabie Northside, Whispering Pines Assisted Living, Sunrise Assisted Living of Fresno and all those who accompanied her on this journey.
