Vincent Ruffalo

Vincent J. Ruffalo, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away on March 21, 2018.  He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 4, 1930, and he is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marie Smith Ruffalo, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  They have lived in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, for the past 30+ years.

Vincent was from an Italian immigrant family and although his father passed away when he was young, and his mother had a prolonged illness, Vincent and his two brothers overcame obstacles to lead successful lives. Vincent attended Lake Forest College in Illinois, began his career with Simmons Mattress Company and then joined Prudential Insurance Company in 1957, a decision that guided the rest of his working life. As a Certified Life Underwriter (CLU), he worked in sales and sales management positions and was with Prudential for 31 years. His positions included Agent, District Manager and Vice President.  In the 1970s and 1980s, he managed the largest agency in the nation encompassing the Virginia Tidewater area. Perhaps his greatest career achievement was his influence on national sales strategies and his mentoring of young professionals.  In retirement, Vincent continued his mentorship by counseling developers of emerging small businesses in the Jacksonville area. He volunteered with the St. Johns County government and held appointed positions which affected residential development and zoning in the Ponte Vedra Beach area.

Most importantly, Vincent will be remembered for his unconditional love for his family. Vincent was such a positive role model when it came to honorable character, work ethic and loyalty.  He was the “rock” for the family and his positive attitude (one of his famous quotes: “that’s life”), spiritual faith and love helped guide them through their individual life’s journey. Vincent and Mary were a great team and were able to conquer life’s challenges. They were members of Our Lady Star of The Sea and the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club for over 30 years.  Vincent had a great love of sports and the Chicago Cubs and the Jacksonville Jaguars had no better fan.

Vincent is survived by his wife, Marie Smith Ruffalo of Ponte Vedra Beach; four daughters, Linda Ruffalo Mercer, Cathy Ruffalo Callahan (John); Sharon Ruffalo Hoover; Lori Ruffalo Casazza (William), seven grandchildren, Brock Dutcher (Caroline), Chase Dutcher (Nhung), Jennifer Callahan Robinson (Eric), Katie Callahan, Kristen Callahan, Zack Casazza and Caitlin Casazza, along with three great-grandchildren.

Celebration of Life and Mass took place on March 26, 2018, at the Quinn Shalz Funeral Home, Jacksonville Beach, FL.  Burial was at the Ponte Vedra Valley Cemetery.