In Celebration of

Donato Rufo

February 18, 1948 - September 19, 2023

It is with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donato (Don) Rufo on Tuesday, September 19th at Princess Margaret Hospital after a short but difficult illness. Don was the beloved husband of 52 years to Marisa, and wonderful father to Julia (Jorge) and Adrian (deceased in 2015).

Born in San Donato, Italy on February 18, 1948 he immigrated with his parents and younger brother Cesidio (Cid) to Canada in 1956 where he built a fulfilling life for himself with his family and many friends.

Don was a caring, compassionate and gentle soul always seeing good in the people and situations in his life. Many friends and family members sought his insight into life through his positive outlook and thoughtful approach to life’s joys and challenges. He loved nature and spending time outdoors recharging his soul whether it was skiing, cycling or just strolling through parks and trails.

Don leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. It is so very hard to imagine our world without him. He will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to have him in their lives.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Turner and Porter, Yorke Chapel on Sunday, September 24th between the hours of 2:00 and 5:00 pm.

Guestbook

(5 of 20)

Euleen Lord (Ex coworker)

Entered September 20, 2023 from Scarborough

Don was Such a fun loving, jovial happy guy. Will surely miss him.

Barbara Tinsley (Friend)

Entered September 20, 2023 from Toronto

Please accept my sincere condolences. Thinking of you and Julia with love at this very sad time.

Bruce Hogg and Lori Matthews (Friend)

Entered September 20, 2023 from Richmond Hill

So sorry. Don was a great and caring friend. He leaves a judge hole that can’t be filled.

Marielle Pelchat-Morris (Friend and best neighbour!)

Entered September 20, 2023 from 1202-71 Charles Street East, Toronto ON M4Y 2T3

Dear Marisa & Julia, I am so sorry for your loss, words just don’t come to express how I feel. Don was a great man. Always willing to help, especially after Ron’s passing, how many times did he come to the door to offer his help and he would say i mean it anytime. I am sure he was looking forward to be a grand-father. After selling the house i always say i don’t miss the house but i miss my neighbours. I wish courage, be strong. I know you have so many wonderful memories.
Love, Marielle.

Riva Warrilow

Entered September 20, 2023 from San Francisco, CA

I feel so grateful to have known Don as dear friend of my parents' throughout my life. Some of my earliest memories take place at Don + Marisa's home in Toronto, many of which include Don's warm genuine smile and the sound of his iconic laugh.

Don was a rock for my parents and I in the midst of a family tragedy, offering comfort, support, and a ray of sunshine in a very dark time. I'll never forget his kindness and presence in those days; I do not know how we would have made it through that time without him and his family. I will do my best to honor Don by laughing loudly, smiling at strangers, and going for a long walk.

Marisa + Julia, I love you and am sending you strength and support.