Joseph C. Rufa

“Humility, like darkness reveals the heavenly lights.”
~Henry David Thoreau

The family of Joseph C. Rufa wishes to inform friends and family of his passing December 19, 2024 at his home in Manhattan. There will be no calling hours. A burial service will take place at Willis Cemetery in Dummer, New Hampshire in the spring of 2025.

Joseph was born in Ogdensburg, NY on April 29, 1934 and it was here where he learned the value of hard work, service and humility. Joe was the youngest son of Quirino and Michaelina (Basta) Rufa. He attended Holy Cross grade school and St. Mary’s Academy. Joe’s high school yearbook described him as “dependable, hard working, yet never too busy to give someone a smile.” He graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1951 and went on to further his education at LeMoyne College. While studying Business Administration at LeMoyne, Joe was president of Northern NY Club, a Student Council Representative and Chairman of the Sophomore Carnival. He also was Advertising Manager for the “Dolphin” (the college newspaper) and “The Black

Robe” ( the college yearbook). In 1955 Joseph was named to LeMoyne’s Who’s Who List; honoring him for his scholarship and service to his college community. In 1956, Joe graduated with honors from LeMoyne and received a Bachelor’s Business Administration degree with a major in accounting. Upon graduating from LeMoyne, Joseph chose to use his knowledge and talent to serve his country in the United States Army. He was honorably discharged from the Army in December, 1962.

After his military service, Joseph pursued an accounting career in New York City and put down roots in Brooklyn, NY. His work ethic, integrity and positive attitude proved him to be an outstanding asset for many businesses in the NYC area.

Joe had a great love for music and upon meeting his long-time, beloved partner Roland H. Sias he became an avid opera fan. They enjoyed listening to a vast collection of opera records and tapes. Joe and Roland traveled the world to see their favorite opera stars perform. One of their most memorable experiences was when they actually had the opportunity to meet Luciano Pavarotti. Roland passed away in 1990; leaving Joe his prized Steinway piano. Later in life Joe decided it was time to downsize and donated his and Ron’s immense opera collection, along with the pristine Steinway, to Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam.

Joe is survived by his sister, Theresa SanFelice, of Morristown, New Jersey, several nieces and nephews, along with Alina Burke and Linda Churchill (Roland’s nieces) who also considered him “Uncle Joe.” Joseph is also survived by his devoted companion Salvatore Caruso Sr. and the Caruso family members who lovingly cared for him during his aging years. He is predeceased by his brothers, Peter P. Rufa and Ernie J. Rufa.

All those who had the privilege of knowing Joseph C. Rufa admired his optimism, his diligence, his unassuming nature and his gentle spirit. Throughout his life he remained true to himself; proud and appreciative of his humble roots. He didn’t amass an abundance of possessions; he didn’t aspire to positions of power and prestige. He simply worked every day at being the best version of himself he could be. He was a man who searched for ways to be of service. He was a man who was reliable and trustworthy. He was a man “never too busy to bring a smile to someone who needed it.” Joseph Carl Rufa was a kind and gentle man whose quiet presence revealed a heavenly light for all who knew and loved him.

New Hampshire arrangements are entrusted to the Bryant Funeral Homes & Crematory, Berlin and Gorham, NH.