Orville Ruff

Orville Ruff, 88, of St. Joseph, passed away on Tuesday, August 30, 2011, at home under the care of his daughter Kathy whom he lived with for the past 19 years following the death of his wife. A Celebration Luncheon to celebrate Orville’s life and share loving memories will be held at Tosi’s Restaurant in Stevensville on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. According to Orville’s wishes he has been cremated and no funeral will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel. Memorial contributions in Orville’s name may be made to the Humane Society, 641 S. Crystal Ave., Benton Harbor. Those wishing to sign Orville’s memory book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Orville was born in Benton Harbor on August 23, 1923. He is the son of Frank & Olga (Zielke) Ruff. He married Betty Shelby in 1956. They resided in the St. Joseph area and enjoyed a wonderful life with their children and grandchildren until Betty’s passing in 1993. Orville was an Army veteran of WWII. Following his discharge, he was employed with Clark Equipment for 10 years. Orville then became a chef for Tosi’s and retired after 42 years, his wife Betty also worked at Tosi’s as a waitress. He came out of retirement after four years to once again work for Tosi’s for an additional 3 years and then retired a second time. Orville was an area bowler for many years and truly enjoyed life to the fullest. He spent his retirement going out to eat with family and friends until his illness 6 months ago. Orville enjoyed watching ball games and college soft ball games on television. He will be extremely missed by his loving family and many friends. Orville loved his family and grandchildren very much and they were always there to bring a smile to him. Surviving are his three daughters Kathy Ruff, Carol Gorske and Connie (Dennis) Arndt, nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews, Orville was a very special uncle to them all. He will also be missed by his wonderful dog, Bella. Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, are his wife Betty, son Gary, daughter Kathleen Ann, son Ricky Shoemaker, brothers Vernon and Kenneth Ruff, and sisters Lorraine Meister and Frances Adcock.