Ruth Tufano

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ruth Tufano, 85, of Littleton, Colorado. Ruth was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who passed away at home due to cancer on July 17, 2024. She is survived by her husband of 60 years John (Jack) Tufano, daughter Daria Tufano, granddaughter Campbell Isherwood, as well as several nieces, nephews, and many friends who became family.

Ruth Philip was born June 30, 1939 and grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. She and her husband Jack met while studying at Jersey City Junior College in 1958 after Jack’s Air Force service in the Korean War. She then continued her education at a teachers college in Jersey City to earn her teaching degree.

Ruth and Jack married in 1964 at Saint Aidan‘s Church in Jersey City, NJ, daughter Daria was born the following year, then in 1971 they headed west, finally settling in Littleton, Colorado. Ruth was a dedicated and loving mother to Daria. Her guided strength and unwavering support were a constant in Daria‘s life, providing a foundation of love and encouragement.

Ruth enjoyed teaching young elementary school children in Littleton for many years. In 1982, she and Jack, enticed by the entrepreneurial spirit, owned and operated The Italian Touch Restaurant in Conifer, serving New York style Italian food until 1992. When they sold the business, Ruth kept busy working at JCPenney.

In 2003 Ruth began her most cherished job ever, earning the title of Mimi when granddaughter Campbell was born. She loved being a grandmother. She adored Campbell and was very involved with her and treasured every moment they spent together, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories.

Celebrating their milestone anniversary on June 13th of this year, Ruth shared a remarkable 60 year marriage with her beloved husband Jack. Their love story was one of unwavering devotion and partnership filled with cherished memories and shared joys. A true love story.

Having battled breast cancer twice, Ruth was a fighter. She enjoyed baking, crocheting, and loved animals. She was extremely giving and generous, always ready with a smile, and she filled every room with laughter and fun. She was a wonderful storyteller and loved recounting tales of her family and growing up in Jersey City. Her smile was infectious and many a belly laugh was had when she really got on a roll.

Ruth’s legacy of love, kindness and strength will live in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A burial will take place Monday, July 29th 2024, at 1:30 PM at Fort Logan Cemetery, Staging Area A, followed by a Celebration of Life at her home in Littleton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

Intermountain Humane Society
67318 U.S. 285 Pine, CO 80470

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Colorado
7951 Maplewood Ave #126
Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Denver Rescue Mission
PO Box 5206 Denver, CO 80217

The Tufano family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Namaste Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Ruth’s final days.
 

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