Julie Ann Ruffalo

Julie Ann Ruffalo was born July 28, 1935, on Forrest Street in Racine to David and Julia Praeger and was the youngest of 10 children. She completed her earthly journey on December 2, 2025. She passed away peacefully at home, with family present.

A proud graduate of William Horlick High School, Class of 1953, Julie carried her Racine roots with her throughout her life. On July 27, 1957, she married the love of her life, Emil Peter Ruffalo, at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church. Together they built a life full of joy, adventure, and unwavering devotion to family.

Julie was a beautiful woman—inside and out—and she understood the magic of a good hair day. Thanks to her loyal stylists Berdell and Rose, she took pleasure in her weekly Friday hair appointment.

An extraordinary cook and baker, Julie perfected the art of Italian cuisine under the guidance of her beloved mother-in-law, Theresa Ruffalo (Infusino), during her early married years. Her iconic Monday night pasta dinners became a cherished family tradition that lasted for decades. She passed her culinary secrets along with her love of feeding others, to her daughters, who treasure them dearly.

Though most of her life was spent as a dedicated wife and homemaker, Julie also worked at several Racine establishments, including Marigold Dairy Malt Shop, Lincoln Bakery, Pokorny’s Drug Store (best hot fudge sundae in town), Wisconsin Natural Gas, Goldblatt’s, King Ehrlich’s, Coiffure by Pauline doing payroll, and later at Boston Store and Younkers during the holiday rush.

Julie found joy in tending her flower garden, golfing, and traveling the world with Emil. They also enjoyed winters at their Ft. Myers Beach condo where family often joined them. She also enjoyed yearly family road trips across the U.S. that created memories still shared today.

She also enjoyed a little sparkle of luck at the blackjack table or slot machine and often walked away a winner.

Julie was a lifetime member of the Vittoria Colonna Lodge, where she was an avid bocce player in the women’s bocce league, and with her husband in a Roma Lodge couple’s league. She shared decades of camaraderie and competition with dear family and friends.

Above all, Julie adored her family. She lovingly introduced her four children by their affectionate titles: “#1 oldest son, #1 oldest daughter, #1 youngest daughter, and #1 youngest son.”

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy, each one cherished deeply.

Julie leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, generosity, and tradition and family strengthened by her love, nourished by her cooking, and forever guided by her gentle, joyful spirit. May her memory continue to bloom in every garden, every family gathering, and every shared meal she inspired.

Julie is survived by her children David (Bridget) Ruffalo, Ann Marie Ruffalo, and Jane Ruffalo; her grandchildren Ryan (Krystal) Sorenson, Sabrina Ruffalo, and Anthony Ruffalo; and her great-grandchildren Maebelle, Rocky, and Bo Sorenson. She will also be missed by many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her son John Peter Ruffalo; her beloved husband Emil Peter Ruffalo; her parents; and her nine siblings.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Julie’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on December 11, 2025, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring Street, with Rev. Thomas Vathappallil officiating. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass at 11:00 a.m., A Vittoria Colonna Lodge service will take place just prior to the Mass.

Interment will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Hwy. 32.