Longtime harness racing industry participant Mario Joseph Ruffolo Sr. of Guelph, Ont. passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 at the age of 91.
Loving father to Catherine, Joseph, Gina, Mario David Jr. (Predeceased), and Adelina Marie (Predeceased). Brother to Angela (George) Clydesdale, Marlene, Patrick, and predeceased by siblings Frank, Connie, and Ebby Sr. Proud Papa of Sean, Stephanie, Patrick, Christina, Ashley, Adam, Sarah, and Emily. Great-grandfather to Jett, Siara, Alexandra, Devon, Donovan, Carson, Serenity, and Seth. Predeceased by his beloved wife June Ruffolo, his parents; Adelina and Luigi Ruffolo.
Mario's early years began with building homes and small apartment buildings, finally building and operating Plantation Bowl with his brothers Frank and Ebby for many years, leasing it out and leaving in 1968 to pursue a career/hobby in horse racing. Finally moving his family to Puslinch, Ont., he operated and maintained his horse farm there for the next 40 years. He loved horse racing with a passion, and talked about the good old days racing at Greenwood, Mohawk, Flamboro, Barrie and Orangeville constantly with his buddies Tom and Heather Burke. Mario spent his later years playing golf and lunching with his brother-in-law Frank and Saturday nights at Mohawk with his good friend Dave.
A special thanks from Mario's family to Guelph General Hospital, Dr. Philip Harvey, Wellington Hospice and all the kind and caring staff at both Guelph General and Wellington Hospice. His presence will be dearly missed by all his friends and family for many years to come.
Friends will be received on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024 at 10 a.m. for a period of visiting at the Crestview Chapel of Glen Oaks at 3164 Ninth Line, Oakville. The service will follow at 11 a.m. by Father John Bosco with the entombment immediately after. Once the entombment is complete, guests are invited to join back at the Funeral Home for a reception gathering to honour Mario in a time of fellowship with refreshments and lunch.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Mario Ruffolo.
(Standardbred Canada)