Donald Michael Ruffalo

Donald Michael Ruffalo, also known to his family as 'Mick', went to be with the Lord on June 20, 2010 (Father's Day), in La Mirada, CA. He was born August 2, 1923, the first son of Dominico Anthony and Angeline Lee Ruffalo, and was raised in Youngstown, Ohio, where he graduated from East High School. He was wed to Helen Marie in 1943. He soon thereafter served in World War II with the Army Air Force from March 1943 to June 1945 in the 15th, 465 Bomber Group, 783rd Squadron as a B-24 radio operator and gunner in the Mediterranean Theater, where he was awarded seven bronze meritorious service stars. Upon his return, he held various positions in the electronics industry for over 40 years, and at the peak of his career was plant manager of A.O. Smith, Los Angeles, California.He enjoyed serving as an usher at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in La Habra, California, volunteering for the Boy Scouts of America and as a volunteer and Friend of the La Habra Library. His hobbies included sport fishing in Baja California, electronics and golf.He was predeceased by his father, mother, former wife and sister, Marie. He is survived by his brother James and four children: Alan Michael, Karen Lee, Jon Anthony and Michael James; three grandchildren: Sheryl, Lisa LeAnn, and Michael Christopher; two great grandchildren: Chloe and Tori Logan. Donald Ruffalo was known for his love of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, personal strength, zest for life and pride in the US Air Force.He will be interred at the Riverside National Cemetery after a military funeral in the near future.